SPIRITUAL VITAMIN DEVOTIONAL

BYSTANDER VERSUS STANDING BY

"For he stands at the right hand of the needy one to save his life from those who condemn him."
~Psalms 109:31

When I have gone through difficult times in my life, many stood by me. Some to encourage and others to accuse and condemn! Whether it be family, friend or foe, there will be those in your life who will stand by you to support and encourage you, and "bystanders" who will criticize and accuse you.

The apostle Paul new too well what it was like to experience friend and foes a like who were "bystanders". When Paul was taken before the Sanhedrin (the religious elders), the High Priest ordered those "standing near" Paul to strike him! There were also numerous "bystanders" on his journey who hurled insults and made false accusations but few who "stood by" him in his time of need. Paul also knew what it was like to be a "bystander" and stand in judgment of others... When he was very religious, he also "stood by" to accuse and condemn Christians.

Even when others desert you or stand and accuse you, God will never leave nor forsake you. "He stands at the right hand of the needy one, to save his life from those who condemn him." When Paul was imprisoned, scripture tells us "the Lord stood near Paul and said, 'Take courage!'" The Lord himself stood next to Paul to encourage him! He will even send his angels to stand by you.

As believers in Christ, we are called to love and encourage one another, to build each other up, not tear each other down. When Paul was murdering Christians, the Lord Jesus himself met Paul on the road to Damascus to ask him why he was persecuting him (the church). God went so far as to send Ananias who "stood beside" Paul to bring healing and a message from the Lord...

It has been said that people judge on what they "think" they know. God judges on what He knows... Are you a "bystander" who judges, criticizes and condemns, or do you stand by to offer encouragement, love and support?

Prayer:
Father, thank you for your unconditional love, your abundant grace and unlimited mercy. Thank you for those who you have sent to "stand by" me, even when I did not deserve it, to offer your love and encouragement. Thank you that your word says that you will contend with those who contend with me. You are always before me, at my right hand. I will not be shaken! Forgive me for the times I was a "bystander" and hurled insults, judgment and criticism in the name of religion.

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SPIRITUAL VITAMIN DEVOTIONAL