Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Galatians 6:1

Have you ever ridden with someone in the car and had to tell them to “slow down”? If you have kids who drive, I’m sure those words have been said on numerous occasions. Why, because we know that at a fast speed the chances of having an accident increase dramatically or the police will stop them and issue a costly fine.

As we go through life there will be times when we see our friends or family members driving their life towards trouble. Certain behaviors, habits, relationships (the list is long)….will bring catastrophe to the ones we love. Are we required to tell them to “slow down and change their course”? Scripturally speaking, YES! Come on, you know exactly what I’m talking about. I’m sure at this very moment there is someone in your life that you know is headed for trouble by the way they live. You want to do something to help them, but you feel guilty of your past sins, don’t feel qualified to speak, or just afraid of hurting your relationship with them. Let me tell you, I have had friends correct me and I truly appreciated them for speaking up. Your friend will too. At a minimum your mind will be a little more at ease knowing you tried to help.

So how to go about it? Start by praying. Pray for them that their heart will be soft enough to listen. Ask God to give you the right moment to speak and allow His wisdom to flow from your mouth. When the moment comes to speak, do so in a loving way. Don’t criticize but show compassion and know that their circumstance is difficult and they don’t know they are in trouble. You are there to simply help them, because you care about their life and well-being. After the message is delivered, pray for them that the seed you planted well blossom into something meaningful and that they will change their ways. It’s a process that might take days, weeks even years to see results that need to happen. Don’t give up on them. Your meaningful persistence will one day be rewarded and treasured by that loved one who needed your dedication. Whew…I needed that advice! I hope you can find encouragement to help someone this week. Pray, speak up and help that loved one change for a better direction in their life! God bless!