Within each personal story of the journey from bondage to freedom is the power of the Gospel to save anyone who is lost. We are simply sinners saved by grace and kept clean and sober daily by God’s mercy. When we tell our story, our lives give witness to God’s grace and mercy and we are fulfilling the great commission of spreading the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to others. We are pointing them to the pathway of their own healing journey with Jesus who said,
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind; to set at liberty those who are oppressed;” (Luke 4:18 NKJV)
The Bible tells us that if someone struggles we should be gentle and humble as we help them get back on the right path. It’s important to remember how we were when we were slaves to our addiction, just as they are now. We need to support the desire in a person’s spirit to carry out their new life choices, even while their flesh is weak. We also need to respectfully warn others for whom we perceive ongoing danger. Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23 NIV)
We are not the Saviour but we can love others as God loves us. Love goes beyond mere words. Sometimes it is demonstrated in silence or in an understanding touch, as we come alongside someone who has strayed from the path of recovery. Love doesn’t accuse, but encourages the person to get back on the road to healing, and continue the journey. Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
Lord Jesus, May my life reflect the joy of living life to the full so that others may believe in the power of the Gospel to save and transform lives.
©2016 Partners in Hope
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