How can we practically express concern for those who stray from God's laws? Opening the Text “I look on the faithless with loathing, because they do not keep Your word.” – Psalm 119:158 Feeling What the Psalmist Feels • The Hebrew nuance behind “loathing” includes grief, anguish, and righteous indignation. • The psalmist is not disgusted with people as mere individuals; he is distressed over their rebellion against a holy God. • His reaction reminds us that love for God’s law naturally produces a deep concern when that law is ignored. Moving from Grief to God-Honoring Action 1. Let the sorrow drive prayerful intercession • Ezekiel 22:30 – God seeks people who will “stand in the gap.” • 1 Timothy 2:1 – “Petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.” • Pray specifically for soft hearts, conviction of sin, and receptivity to truth. 2. Approach gently but directly • Galatians 6:1 – “Restore him gently.” • Matthew 18:15 – Go first “in private.” • Tone matters: firm about truth, tender toward the person. 3. Speak Scripture, not mere opinion • Hebrews 4:12 – God’s word “pierces.” • Isaiah 55:11 – It “will not return void.” • Share passages that address the precise area of disobedience; God’s own words carry weight our arguments never will. 4. Model joyful obedience yourself • 1 Peter 2:12 – “Live such good lives… they may see your good deeds.” • Consistent, visible faith removes the charge of hypocrisy and shows the beauty of walking in God’s ways. 5. Offer tangible help in turning back • James 2:15-16 – Concern without action is empty. • Practical support: accountability, resources, study partners, even assistance with life changes (new living situation, tech filters, financial counseling). 6. Remain patient and hopeful • 2 Timothy 2:24-26 – “Patiently instruct… that God may grant them repentance.” • 1 Corinthians 13:7 – Love “always hopes.” • Keep the door open, even after repeated setbacks; restoration is often a process, not an instant event. Guarding Our Own Hearts While We Help • Proverbs 4:23 – “Guard your heart,” lest disappointment harden it. • Jude 23 – Show mercy, “hating even the garment stained by the flesh.” Stay uncompromising on holiness yet compassionate toward the struggler. • Romans 12:21 – “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Enduring Motivation The psalmist’s grief springs from love for God’s glory; ours should too. Each act of concern becomes an act of worship—honoring the God whose perfect law is worth upholding and whose mercy is eager to welcome every prodigal home. |
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