1 Samuel 15:30-31
Saul tried again, "I have sinned. But don't abandon me! Support me with your presence before the leaders and the people. Come alongside me as I go back to worship GOD."
Samuel did. He went back with him. And Saul went to his knees before GOD and worshiped.
Scripture quotations from The Message. © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002 by Eugene Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress, Colorado Springs, CO. All rights reserved.
Second chances… we all need them from time to time. We make a mistake, and we know we can do better – if only we are given a chance to prove it. We all know of people who are in the media forefront who have really blown it big time… and many are asking for us to “forgive and forget” – to give them another chance to do better. We may also know people in our own community, circle of friends, or even our own family who need a second chance and our support as they make an effort to change.
Think about this… because of the blood of Jesus on the cross, we all have a shot at a second chance. Saul asked Samuel to stick by him and to encourage the entire church and community to support him as he tried to rebuild his relationship with God – and others. We have asked God to stick by us and support us as we commit to living the life of a Christian. And maybe you are asking your friends, family, church family, and community to support you in efforts to turn your own life around and live better. Or maybe someone is asking you to lend your support and encouragement in their own rebuilding effort.
Either way, we cannot refuse. Hopefully fellow believers will come to your rescue and encourage you if/when you need it. And surely you will do the same for others when they approach you. God will not abandon us… He will never turn his back on us when we ask Him to help… to set us on our feet and give us another chance. So how can we do any less for others?
Who do you need to encourage today? Who do you need to ask for support in your own efforts to make changes and/or do better? Do you need to ask God to give you a second chance? Evaluate your situation and see where you need to ask these questions… then get busy finding the road back to God and right living - for yourself and everyone in your path.
©2011 Debbie Robus
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