saving a lost brother

I was very encouraged the other day at Calvary when my dad talked about jumping into the river and saving a lost brother or sister in Christ. How am I mobilizing to help those brothers who are straying from the path? Am I being an encouragement or am I being a nag? Are my intentions behind my actions pure and right?

I was encouraged by Paul's words to Philemon. Paul knows what Philemon should do (in regards to Onesimus) but doesn't force him to do it. Instead he says, "I could demand it in the name of Christ because it is the right thing for you to do, but because of our love, I prefer just to ask you."

I don't want to force people to love God. It will just lead to a false religion. Instead, I want to lovingly encourage those who are struggling and allow them to make the right decision on their own.

"I will keep a protective eye on the godly,

so they may dwell with me in safety."

~Psalm 101:6