Jude 1:22-24 -- On Compassion, Fear, and Falling

"And of some have compassion, making a difference:
And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,"
Jude 1:22-24


This is interesting, talking about two different approaches to helping others... showing them compassion, or encouraging them to be afraid of the consequences of bad action. Both seem like appropriate approaches, depending on the circumstances. The best part though is the last verse which indicates that God can keep us from falling, which works for either. Either we learn to love him and walk in his way, and don't fall, or we understand and avoid the consequences from falling, and turn to him because he can help us remain upright. Of course, both approaches probably apply to all of us, as we all need to learn to love God, and also to fear the consequences of sin.

Today, let's look to God who is able to keep us from falling, even when we have proven pretty bad at that skill ourselves. Let's turn to him and thank and praise him for helping us through every day.