“So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer.” (2 Corinthians 5:16)
Paul writes, “From now on, we regard no one according to the flesh … anyone … in Christ … is a new creation; old things have passed away … all things have become new” (vv. 16-17). Here is an important spiritual principle. When you’re trying to help a believer who is battling adversity, addiction, or physical affliction, speak life to their regenerated spirit. Speak to the part of them that’s capable of rising up in faith and responding to God’s Word: “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).
How does faith come? By hearing what God thinks, says, and can do. Until God has been heard, the last word hasn’t been spoken. God instructed Ezekiel to stand in a valley full of dead bones and say, “This is what the Sovereign LORD says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life” (Ezekiel 37:5). And guess what? It happened! Ezekiel said, “As I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together” (v. 7). Now let’s be clear; you can’t hold on to a loved one when God in His sovereign wisdom decides it’s time to take them home to heaven, which Paul describes as “far better” (Philippians 1:23).
But until that happens, speak God’s Word to their regenerated spirit. Faith doesn’t deny the reality of the circumstances, but it refuses to be intimidated, limited, or ruled by them. “Spirit can be known only by spirit” (1 Corinthians 2:14), so when someone is a redeemed child of God, don’t speak to their human intellect — speak life to their spirit.
Prayer
Lord, help me to speak life to the regenerated spirit of those who are troubled, in pain, or suffering adversity. Give me Your strength so that I can share it with them. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
