Keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life. (Jude 21)
Those who have traveled on an airplane are familiar with the procedures before the plane departs. The flight attendant gives instructions about cabin safety. Passengers are told that in the event of a loss of cabin pressure, they should affix the mask on themselves first before putting the mask on others. It seems a bit selfish, but the reality is that if you lose consciousness due to lack of oxygen, you are not much help to your neighbor.
The book of Jude warns us of the coming apostasy. This period is defined by a falling away from truth and scriptural faith. The author used strong language like “defend the faith” and gave instructions on how to guard against error. He gave three exhortations to the believers: build yourselves up in the faith, pray in the Holy Spirit, and keep yourselves in the love of God. Then he told them to show compassion toward those who had been negatively impacted by the false teachers. These believers needed to shore up their own faith before they could help someone doubting their faith.
Sometimes we look down upon doubt. But it just might be the place where God can save and reveal the fullness of his power. Is your mask of life-giving truth securely fastened? Are you able to help someone in doubt?
Pray for someone you know who is in doubt.
Ladrienne Cage McFarland enjoys spending time with family, listening to music, VBS, crafting, and studying God’s word.
© 2019 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
