How can we encourage others to remain steadfast in righteousness, as Ezekiel 18:26 advises? The Sobering Call of Ezekiel 18:26 “When a righteous man turns from his righteousness and commits iniquity, he shall die because of it. He shall die because of the iniquity he has committed.” Why Steadfastness Matters • Righteousness is never a one-time decision; it is an ongoing walk (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Falling away brings real consequences—both temporal and eternal. • Our faithfulness or failure influences those who watch us, especially newer believers (Romans 14:7). Encouraging Others: Heart Posture First • Compassion, not condemnation—mirror Christ’s gentleness (Galatians 6:1). • Hope-filled reminders—“He who began a good work… will continue” (Philippians 1:6). • Personal humility—acknowledge our own dependence on grace so our counsel feels safe and trustworthy. Practical Ways to Nurture Steadfastness 1. Consistent Presence – Meet regularly (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Send timely notes, calls, or texts when you sense discouragement. 2. Scripture Saturation – Share verses that reinforce endurance: James 1:12; 2 Timothy 4:7. – Read passages aloud together; faith grows by hearing. 3. Shared Spiritual Habits – Invite others into prayer times, fasting days, or Bible-reading plans. – Celebrate milestones: a month of daily devotions, victory over a temptation. 4. Accountability With Grace – “Iron sharpens iron” partnerships (Proverbs 27:17). – Use truthful questions about thought life, media choices, relationships—always coupled with encouragement. 5. Restorative Action Steps – If someone stumbles, gently restore (Galatians 6:1-2). – Offer practical help: counseling resources, removing triggers, setting boundaries. 6. Testimony Sharing – Tell personal stories of God’s faithfulness in trial. – Highlight biblical examples (Joseph, Daniel, Paul) who finished well. 7. Serve Together – Joint ministry keeps hearts outward-focused and strengthens commitment. – Seeing God work through you rekindles zeal for righteousness. Community Culture That Holds Fast • Normalize confession and repentance so slipping believers run toward, not away from, fellowship. • Celebrate holiness openly: rejoice when someone chooses integrity at cost. • Keep eternity in view—“all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:25). Keeping Eyes on the Ultimate Model Jesus “committed no sin” yet persevered through suffering (1 Peter 2:22-23). Point others to Him: His finished work secures our standing, and His example charts our path. Anchoring encouragement in Christ’s perfection and sacrifice empowers believers to remain steadfast, escaping the warning of Ezekiel 18:26 and walking in the enduring joy of righteousness. |
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