Take careful note of the wording in Galatians 6:1: “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” The Bible does not say we are overtaken by a fault, but rather in a fault. This distinction is crucial. A fault is not necessarily a sin in itself, though it is often intertwined with sin. A fault is a moral or character weakness—a hidden flaw that lies beneath the surface. It may not always be visible to others, but when left unaddressed, it creates vulnerability to sin.
A fault, much like a hidden fault line beneath the earth, may go unnoticed until it triggers a major disruption. Scientists explain that earthquakes are caused by unseen faults. Similarly, when someone is overtaken in a fault, the resulting sin is the eruption of a long-standing vulnerability. The outward sin is often the visible tremor, but the fault is the underlying cause. Addressing sin without addressing the fault leaves the root issue unresolved, making future failures likely.
Jesus said in Matthew 7:3, “And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?” Recognizing and dealing with personal faults is essential to spiritual growth and avoiding sin. How then can faults be addressed effectively?
1. Find Fault Within, Not in Others
“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves” (2 Corinthians 13:5). The tendency to point out others’ faults often blinds one to personal shortcomings. True spiritual maturity involves self-examination and humility. This process requires consistent reflection through prayer and reading of the Word. David prayed in Psalm 139:23-24, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” By inviting God to reveal hidden faults, believers cultivate a posture of humility and openness to transformation.
Additionally, finding fault within promotes empathy and grace towards others. When aware of personal weaknesses, believers are less likely to judge harshly and more inclined to extend the same mercy they have received.
2. Confess Faults to the Lord
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). While the verse speaks directly of sin, confessing faults to God is part of the cleansing process. Faults left unconfessed can create strongholds, allowing sin to take root. Proverbs 28:13 says, “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.”
Confessing faults before the Lord involves more than acknowledging them; it includes asking for strength to overcome them. Through prayer, believers can seek divine intervention and transformation, trusting in God’s power to fortify areas of weakness. This confession fosters spiritual growth and renews the heart, creating a stronger defense against future temptations.
3. Be Accountable to Others for Faults, Not Just Sins
James 5:16 instructs, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.” Accountability is a safeguard against being overtaken. By sharing struggles and vulnerabilities with trusted believers, the strength of fellowship aids in overcoming personal weaknesses. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reinforces this principle: “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow.”
Being accountable requires discernment in choosing individuals who will offer support, not judgment. Trusted spiritual mentors, pastors, or close friends can provide encouragement and correction in a spirit of love. This mutual accountability not only lightens the burden but also fosters healing and growth, reinforcing the bonds of Christian community.
Addressing Faults Practically
For example, a love for junk food may seem trivial, but left unchecked, it could lead to gluttony. Managing this could involve limiting access to ice cream, avoiding environments where temptation arises, and involving someone to help maintain accountability.
A more serious fault such as insecurity can lead to pride, envy, or defensiveness if not addressed. Many times, the sins that manifest are dealt with, but the underlying insecurity remains. Addressing faults directly can prevent many sins before they take root.
Common Faults Leading to Sin
Here is a non-exhaustive list of faults that often lead to sin:
- Bitterness
- Hurt feelings
- Loneliness
- Depression
- Pride
- Procrastination
- Anger
- Jealousy
- Insecurity
- Overthinking
- Argumentative spirit
- Financial irresponsibility
- Feelings of abandonment
A Warning Against Excuses
Romans 1:20 reminds that all are “without excuse.” A fault is not an excuse for sin, but it can explain why certain sins recur. Faults are reasons for vigilance and self-discipline, not justification for wrongdoing.
By identifying and addressing faults, believers can fortify themselves against sin, growing stronger in Christ. As Hebrews 12:1 exhorts, “Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.” Recognize faults, deal with them, and walk in victory through the grace of God.