March 9 Don’t Argue, PRAY! Romans 14:1 NLT
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “Accept other believers who are weak in faith, and don’t argue with them about what they think is right or wrong.” (Romans 14:1 NLT)
There is an idea that “I must be right and if anyone questions my authority, I will respond with as much fury as possible!” Is it possible that my opinions and my assertions, based on my emotions and my human reactions, might not be edifying to the Body of Christ (the Church)? Just a few days ago, I was approached about a recent devotion, posted on Facebook, and the individual was upset that I had indicated that he was, somehow, wrong in his actions and behaviors, when he was questioned about his motives while “serving” the local church assembly. He went on to loudly express his disagreement, and that he had been working in the church for years and he thought that he might know a bit more than me about how to do certain tasks and jobs within the church. He finally took a breath, and I had the opportunity to speak. I, as gently as possible, expressed my apologies for his reaction to the truth and that I would be willing to share just exactly what I meant. Well, that didn’t go well! He told me that he didn’t care what I say that the scriptures say that he was fully aware of what and how to act, and to do, and that he didn’t need any “so called preacher” to tell him what to do and how to live! Sadly, I expressed my sorrow at his attitude and turned and walked away. As I climbed into my automobile, I stopped and reflected on this encounter, and I was deeply saddened by the fact that so many, in every church fellowship, are operating on the same premise as this young man, and that his actions are not building the Kingdom, but causing chaos, strife and displaying an attitude of arrogance and “my way or the highway” mentality! How is this helping a new believer? How is this attitude promoting God’s Kingdom? How are these actions “loving your neighbor?” From that moment, I have committed to praying more, studying more, and to make sure that what I say and how I act is in line with the Holy Scriptures! Any actions, any words, any positions that are not Praising and Promoting God’s Grace and Glory, are not appropriate! Again, your opinions and your prejudices carry no weight with the Savior! “How will we know that we are your disciples, Lord? KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS!” Harmony, Peace, Cooperation, Worship, Praise, and Witnessing should be our priorities! Stay Strong, Stay Focused … THE BEST IS YET TO BE!