Sin Stinks: The Call to Restore Our Brothers and Sister, in Love

"Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted." — Galatians 6:1

Imagine walking into a room filled with a terrible, overwhelming stench. No matter how much you try to ignore it, the odor lingers, filling the air, making it impossible to breathe freely. That is exactly how God views sin—a foul, putrid stench rising before Him, offensive to His holiness.

Sin corrupts, pollutes, and leaves an undeniable stain on the soul. It separates us from God, distorts our purpose, and weakens our spiritual strength. But here’s the reality—we are all vulnerable to falling short. The question is: How do we respond when we see a brother or sister caught in sin?

God doesn’t call us to criticize, condemn, or shame them. Instead, He calls us to restore them in love. Sin may stink, but the grace of God cleanses, renews, and makes all things new.

Recognizing the Stench of Sin

In the Old Testament, God often described sin as something that was detestable to Him—something that He could not tolerate in His presence.

Isaiah 65:5 speaks of those who live in pride and rebellion, saying: "These are smoke in my nostrils, a fire that burns all the day."

Sin is not just a mistake; it is a sickness, a corruption that taints the soul. The enemy uses sin to weigh people down, to keep them trapped in cycles of guilt, addiction, and brokenness. But God, in His infinite mercy, does not leave His children in that condition—He makes a way for restoration.

The Call to Restore, Not Condemn

Many people, when they see others caught in sin, react with judgment instead of mercy. They point fingers, gossip, and distance themselves, as if the fallen person is beyond redemption. But the Word of God teaches us differently:

Galatians 6:1 instructs us: "If a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness."

This verse is clear—our responsibility is restoration, not rejection.

Instead of adding to someone’s shame, God calls us to reach out with love. To remind them that grace is still available, redemption is still possible, and healing is within reach.

Approaching with a Heart of Humility

One of the greatest dangers in correcting others is forgetting that we, too, are flawed. That is why Galatians 6:1 warns us to consider ourselves before offering correction.

Jesus emphasized this truth when He said in Matthew 7:5: "First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye."

We must correct from a place of love, not superiority. Restoration is about guiding people back to God, not making them feel unworthy of His grace.

The Power of Grace in Restoration

God does not just remove sin—He replaces it with new life, renewed purpose, and divine strength.

Isaiah 1:18 declares: "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

Restoration is about bringing the hope of redemption to those who feel lost. It’s about reminding them that sin may stink, but grace washes clean.

Final Challenge: Walking in Love and Restoration

The next time you see a brother or sister struggling in sin, remember:

Sin stinks, but God’s mercy is greater.

Your job is to restore, not to condemn.

Correct with love, not pride.

Extend grace, because grace was given to you.

God’s heart is always to redeem. Let your heart reflect His love.

Amen.

Dr. D. Devon Griffin, Author

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