I firmly believe that Christians, especially Christians who teach, write and speak, should examine themselves regularly to make sure we haven’t slipped or drifted away from what we knew to be true in the past. The Apostle Paul wrote the Corinthians that they should examine and test themselves to ensure whether they were “in the faith” (2 Corinthians 13:5-6). Paul also wrote that when we see someone “overtaken in any trespass,” those who are spiritual should restore that person “in a spirit of gentleness.” Why? “considering yourself lest you also be tempted.”

I take Paul’s words to heart, as should we all. We need to be careful that we don’t drift away from sound doctrine and that we are humble and gentle when helping someone who has drifted away.

I say that to point out the truth that we can help each other on our spiritual journeys as we care for each other. If we love others as we love ourselves, we should want to watch out for how people are doing in their relationships to God and others. If you love God, His Word and His people, you’ll know when someone is spiritually falling away.

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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