In what ways can we help others avoid the "fallen" state in Psalm 36:12? Psalm 36:12 in Focus “There the evildoers have fallen; they have been thrust down and cannot rise.” Defining the Fallen State • A point of no recovery—those who persist in evil reach a collapse from which they “cannot rise.” • It is moral, spiritual, and often physical ruin; a direct consequence of rejecting God’s truth (see Psalm 1:6). Roots That Lead to Ruin (Psalm 36:1-4) • No fear of God before their eyes. • Self-flattery that masks sin. • Words of deceit and malice. • A settled posture of doing wrong. God’s Refuge: The Contrasting Hope (Psalm 36:5-9) • His love reaches to the heavens, His faithfulness to the clouds. • In His light we see light (v. 9). God openly offers safety, satisfaction, and sight—resources that keep people from falling. Helping Others Avoid the Fall: Practical Steps 1. Point Them to the Fear of the LORD – “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7). – Explain God’s holiness and justice as well as His love, so awe replaces apathy. 2. Share the Gospel of Grace – Christ alone rescues from sin’s downward spiral (Romans 5:8). – Emphasize repentance and faith, not mere self-improvement. 3. Teach the Whole Counsel of God – Scripture lights the path away from pitfalls: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). – Encourage systematic Bible reading and sound doctrine. 4. Model Integrity and Holiness – People learn what righteousness looks like by watching consistent lives (1 Corinthians 11:1). – Confess and forsake our own sins quickly; hypocrisy nudges others toward cynicism and collapse. 5. Cultivate Community and Accountability – “Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness” (Galatians 6:1). – Small groups, mentoring, and honest friendships create safety nets before anyone hits bottom. 6. Pray and Intercede Persistently – Plead for hearts to soften and eyes to open (Ephesians 1:18). – Spiritual battles are won in prayer long before visible choices change. 7. Extend Mercy and Correct Lovingly – “Save others by snatching them from the fire” (Jude 22-23). – Speak truth, but lace every word with compassion; rescue, don’t condemn. 8. Warn of Consequences Without Dilution – “So the one who thinks he is standing firm should be careful not to fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12). – Clear warnings awaken sleepers and keep the confident humble. Summing Up Helping others avoid the irreversible fall of Psalm 36:12 means guiding them toward a reverent fear of God, the redeeming work of Christ, and a life nourished by Scripture, community, prayer, and loving accountability. By living and sharing these truths, we become instruments God uses to steady wavering feet and lead many onto the solid ground of His unfailing love. |
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