We know, as Jesus said, that we will have troubles in this world (Jn. 16:33). What we don’t often expect is the trouble we can have in the church or parachurch ministries. Somehow we think the church should be exempt but in looking at the prevalence of division and splits, we know that isn’t true.
The church is made up of people … people whose sinful human nature can cause conflict when not actively walking in the Spirit. Much of the trouble we face in ministry involves dealing with people’s negative reactions or hurtful actions.
Trouble: You might face conflict in the church for any number of reasons or discipline issues in the classroom.
Reactions: frustration and possibly feeling like a failure which, if not dealt with properly, could lead to disunity and dysfunction.
Remember: At the end of the day you are responsible before God for what you do. Make sure you can stand before God with your integrity intact regardless of what others are doing.
So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way. (Rom. 14:12-13)
Do not allow what you consider good to be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. (Rom. 14:16-18)
Recourse: “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification” (Rom. 14:19) and then rest in God.
Perhaps some of these articles will be helpful:
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