Saving the Lifeguards

Nº 145 weekly devotions to refresh your soul by Dr. Dan Bolin - May 11, 2021

To believe that He will preserve us is, indeed, a means of preservation. God will certainly preserve us, and make a way of escape for us out of the temptation, should we fall. We are to pray for what God has already promised. Our requests are to be regulated by His promises and commands. Faith embraces the promises and so finds relief. - John Owen

50 years ago, I earned my lifeguard certification. We swam, studied, and practiced for two weeks to learn two things. First, how to save struggling swimmers, and second, how to avoid becoming a victim ourselves. The whole purpose of our training was to ensure that those enjoying the water were safe, but we also needed to understand the dangers we might encounter in the process. We learned to get close to the victim – but not too close, and how to escape if the panic-stricken swimmer latched on to us. Sound strategies for lifeguards and powerful advice for spiritual helpers as well. Paul reminded the church in Galatia, “If someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit, should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you too may be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1) Gentle reminders and spiritual advice can save a life, but they are only necessary because someone is in a dangerous situation. When seductive sins like gossip, anger, bitterness, lust, or greed are dragging down those around us, we can get too close and be pulled down as well. Assist those floundering in their faith but be sure to live by the Spirit as you do.

Dan Bolin President Refueling in Flight Ministries, Inc