Careful You Are Not Tempted

I believe that it is very clear to avoid temptation. I have to look back at my writings to ensure that I am taking the necessary actions and precautions to avoid temptation even though it is very clear. This morning I read that I should be that partner with others to guide them in the avoidance of those temptations and when they do give way to the temptation, I should be there to guide them back, gently.

“¹Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” — Galatians 6:1 (ESV)

But that is not all that is contained in the above verse. I am, yes to guide my brothers and sisters in Christ back to Him in a gentle manner, yet I am also to be careful not to fall into the same temptation with them by allowing them to drag me in. This would be very easy to do as I hold to the idea of gently bringing them back.

You see, it is important to be gentle and understanding. It is also important to be deliberate. I have to remember that I am there to guide my brothers and sisters out of the temptation to transgress that they gave way to. I have a duty to support them and show them that they do not nor did not have to go down that path. I have to put myself in the position of possible temptation in the interest of bringing them out. I cannot avoid the situation due to not wanting to be a part to such transgression. Even Jesus dined with sinners openly to show love and bring that love to them.

“¹¹And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, ‘Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?’ ¹²But when he heard it, he said, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. ¹³Go and learn what this means: “I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.” For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.’” — Matthew 9:11-13 (ESV)

I have to be willing to help those in need and I cannot worry with what others think. I have to just simply do the work that is right. I do however have to be careful not to be dragged in. I have to ensure that I keep my eyes on Jesus so as not to fall prey to temptation to take part in the transgression. I have to know what I am there to do and stick to the plan that God has for me. I have to be careful so as not to be tempted.

When have you avoided getting involved with someone or something in hopes to not be tempted to take part? Are you somehow doing better by not helping others out of those situations? What if you went into those situations to help and stuck to the deliberate action of just helping them out of the situation?