Bringing the Wanderer Home
“My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.” - James 5:19–20
Wandering doesn’t usually happen all at once. It happens slowly, one decision at a time. We drift from prayer, from Scripture, from godly community, and eventually from the peace God desires for us. Often, the things of the world begin to satisfy us more than the things of the Spirit, and before we realize it, we find ourselves far from where God has called us to be.
James reminds us that wandering is not the end of the story. God, in His grace, uses people to bring others back. Sometimes that return comes through hardship or a wake-up call, but many times it comes through a friend who loves us enough to speak truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Calling someone back to the truth isn’t about judgment; it’s about love. It’s about caring more for someone’s soul than their temporary comfort. The person who is wandering may not welcome correction at first, but one day they may look back and thank God that someone stepped out in courage and obedience.
James 5:19–20 challenges us not only to be aware of our own hearts but to be responsible for one another. God calls us to lovingly restore those who have wandered, knowing that eternal impact outweighs momentary discomfort.
Reflection Questions
Are there areas in my life where I’ve slowly wandered from God’s truth?
Is there someone God is prompting me to lovingly call back toward Him?
Do I avoid hard conversations out of fear, or am I willing to step out in love?
Prayer
Lord, search my heart and reveal any place where I have wandered from You. Give me the humility to return and the courage to help others do the same. Help me to speak truth with love and compassion, valuing eternity over comfort. Use me to bring others back to You, for Your glory. Amen.
Action Step
Reach out to one person today—either to seek accountability for yourself or to lovingly encourage someone who may be wandering. Speak truth in love and trust God with the outcome.