This post is Day 22 in a series of studies about “Truth”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Truth – Day 22

It is so important to be in a prayer group or church group where people are accountable one to another. One where there are trusted leaders who are ready to address wrong ideas and wrong behaviour quickly and discretely to set those who wander off back on the right track.

James 5:19-20

My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.

The Thought

These are the last words of James in his short letter. He obviously has a heart for all to be saved, and to be doing what Jesus asked us to do. He speaks to the righteous among us, assuring us that our prayers are powerful and effective (James 5:16).

But James also admits in our verse today, that it is too easy to depart from the truth. Many of us have done that. Not from choice, but through listening to a charismatic speaker who looks good and sounds to be saying the right things, but maybe has a hidden agenda. If we listen too long to the wrong person we will begin to think like them and wander from the truth.

It is so important to be in a prayer group, study group, or small church group. One where people are accountable one to another. And where there are trusted leaders who are ready to address wrong ideas and wrong behaviour quickly and discretely to set the one who has wandered off back on the right track.

This does not mean a “showdown”. Just a discreet meeting. Or a conversation in a quiet place where there is space to pray and to help the wanderer to see the problem.

Action

Give thanks today for those who have helped keep you on the right track in your Christian faith. Bless those who helped you grow as a believer.

Read the book of James. Take note of his good advice about daily life. He gives the impression that he is in touch with reality. But also that He learned much from Jesus, his Saviour.

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