Sometimes when we fall we can get up by ourselves; other times we need someone to help us. And sadly, not all Christians are willing to help. Sometimes they feel that by extending grace to someone, they're accepting their sin. But Paul knocked that argument down when he wrote, ‘Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you’ (Ephesians 4:32 NIV). Why should we be restorers? 1) Because God tells us to. ‘If someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted’ (Galatians 6:1 NIV). It’s pride that causes us to point an accusing finger instead of extending a helping hand to those who fall. It makes us think we’re better than someone else, and incapable of falling like they did. But we can't be certain how we'd react if we were faced with the same circumstances. Paul wrote, ‘We are just as capable of messing it up as they were. Don’t be so naïve and self-confident. You’re not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else’ (1 Corinthians 10:12 MSG). 2) Because Jesus is our example. Jesus had no time for the Pharisees who hid their sins behind a religious mask. But He didn't condemn those who were caught in sin and overtaken by temptation and failure. The minute they reached for Him, He willingly restored them. People will be watching us to see if the grace we talk about having is the same grace we extend to others. Let’s set the best example we can and show grace and compassion as Jesus did.

What Now?

Is there someone who other people tend to ignore or look down at? Make the decision to show grace to them today, treating them with love and compassion just as Jesus does for us.