Matthew 11:9

“But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet.”

“Don’t throw the baby away with the bath water,” is a very common adage. John the Baptist had gone through his season of severe testing and had started doubting. John was going through a rough patch in his faith and his ministry. But Jesus did not judge John based on his current state of mind and faith. Jesus looked beyond the immediate statements of John and still upheld the man of God before the eyes of the people. Jesus knew that the current state of John was a passing phase and He refused to summarize John’s life based on the present realities.

We must likewise extend grace to one another. When you see or hear that a brother has fallen or is falling, don’t throw him away and summarize his life based on that episode. Look at who he has been and how he has walked with the Lord, and pray for his restoration. This is crucial in dealing with the struggling in our midst. We must not castigate or cast down, those who seem to be having a bad day in their pilgrimage. Remember that this is not their end and they can rise again if nurtured correctly. Nurture the struggling and don’t join the crowd who are quick to summarize the destiny of the struggling brother.

“I know I struggle many times in my faith and I really desire understanding and encouragement at such low times. I must, therefore, be very gracious and generous to those who may be going through a difficult patch in their walk with God. Teach me patience and grace O Lord, in Jesus name. Amen.”