James 5:19-20 19 Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, 20 let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.
SOAP – James 5:19-20
James ends this powerful and challenging letter to the scattered and persecuted Jewish Christians. He encourages them to passionately pursue those who have wandered from the faith. Believers are called to pray for those who stray from the faith and humbly draw them back to the Lord.
Where are you seeing evidence of Satan’s influence and interference as you (or someone you love) diligently seek to follow and obey God? Where are you seeing God’s protection and joy in the midst of challenging circumstances? As we diligently seek God, we can boldly ask God to restore a straying believer, for His wisdom and selfless love, for His power to control our speech, and for increased faith to patiently trust Him in our suffering.
Father God, I thank You for Your grace, mercy, and righteousness because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Help me to be obedient to Your Word. Protect me from discouragement and doubt when I am facing hardships. Remind me of the privilege and the power of prayer. Lord, let my thoughts, words, attitudes, and behavior reflect Your love in action to a dark and broken world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.