“But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God's love.”
- Jude 1: 20-21
As we undergo challenges in life, it is easy to only remember our own needs and forget to look after those around us. The reality is that as a Christian community, and as family, we are asked to care for others, especially spiritually. There are far too much struggles and temptations in this world, and we have a responsibility to build each other up in our faith. Through our prayer, through our support, and through the Holy Spirit, we can do our part in helping our fellow friends, brothers, and sisters in staying encouraged on their journey with Christ.
The passage continues to speak to showing mercy to others. "And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives" - Jude 1: 22-23. Notice how in the message of building others, it does not involve judging others. It does not involve imposing our views on others. True, we must turn away from the sins themselves, but we are asked to show mercy to others who are struggling with their faith.
All of us, at one time or another, struggle with our faith. So let us build one another up.
Reflection: Is there a family, or friend, or someone within the community that you can think of that you should reach out to? Is there someone that you can pray and support to build them up? Contemplate and pray for that individual, and act by building that person up this week, by words or by action.
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Thank you, Karyn Lau, for your inspiring article on faith for Christian Calm Radio. Reflect on your devotion to Christ with Christian piano music, Christian hymns and choirs, Old and New Testament Bible audiobooks, worship and gospel music.