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Patient Service
February 13th, 2022
Jude 1:17-25
Nobody said this would be easy! Sometimes we assume that if we are having a hard time, are facing opposition, or are being sorely tempted, something is terribly wrong. Brother Jude is quite clear: divisions come; some folk follow their own natural instincts rather than the Holy Spirit; people struggle and doubt. It is enough to discourage us if we are not careful. Jude also makes it clear that we can build ourselves up by “praying in the Holy Spirit” (v. 20).
This is not “whistling in the dark.” It is a clear and certain promise that God will help us as we show mercy to those who are struggling.
One of the most encouraging passages of scripture we can find is in the closing words of this short letter. The doxology is quoted often by pastors as a benediction just as they dismiss their congregations to go into the world beyond the gathered church. We can indeed keep ourselves in God’s love because the God of love is able to keep us from stumbling! Thanks be to God!
Author: Jesse Middendorf
February 13th, 2022 at 8:32 am
I get the picture of a toddler walking on a rough path, holding on to the father’s hand.