We must understand that our faith and trust in the Lord is not a feeling, it is a heart change. When we follow our feelings, we will do things that make us feel good or seem right but when we follow Christ, we are led by the Spirit who will show us the right way. As fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ, we must learn and mature our faith and seek God’s wisdom only for our source of understanding. We can’t change what we believe because our friends might have different thoughts or because we are seeking acceptance from the world for some political or financial gain. We must humbly come to God, knowing that His word and Jesus’ example are for us to know and live by.
Verse 22 says, “And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering.” We must be open to learn and show love by working together to stay focused on God. It’s not about judging, it’s about teaching and loving people. Verse 23 says: “Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment, show mercy to still others but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.” It’s not alright to excuse or okay ways of life that don’t fit into God’s plan. And we can’t think that because we show love, that we cannot teach Biblical truth. We must always be ready to live a life that resembles Jesus Christ and that means teaching each other full truth, even though it hurts or our family and friends don’t agree.
Verses 20 and 21 say, “But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourself safe in God’s love.” God gave us a choice and we must choose by His power and wisdom in us, not by our emotions that lead us to our desires. Ephesians 1:19 says, “I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us that believe Him…” We should die to self and let God’s power show us the way. And remember, if we feel we don’t understand something, we have God’s Word to teach us.
James 1:5 says, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” Truth is truth. We cannot fill in our own blanks. God has done that for us. So, surrender, and let His power shine. Amen.