Last Tuesday I went out to the prison to lead a bible study. I had a very interesting time. There has been some dissension among the inmates that have been coming and it boils down to a clash of personalities. I remained in control of the situation but set back to let them discuss with each other the issues they had. Once everyone had shared I addressed the group. I pointed out to them that each one had been offended at one point or another during the discussion. I also told them that they cannot leave the meeting with the offense. Satan would like nothing more than this group of men be at odds with each other.
We are all apart of the family of God and it is just that- a family. A family isn't a place where there are no disagreements. On the contrary, disagreements are where we learn to communicate. This takes place in family because it is a safe environment where we have room to fail and learn from our mistakes. The Church needs to realize this responsibility. We don't always agree with each other; however, we must work through our disagreements and allow healing. I understand that we cannot please everyone. Jesus said that it is impossible for there to be no offenses. There are always going to be disagreements but we are instructed to do everything possible to keep the peace. Leaving a church as a result of an offense is never a healthy thing and it gives Satan power to bring destruction.
I used the example of siblings to get this point across. I grew up with a younger brother. We spent most of our childhood fighting and arguing. It seemed like we couldn't stand each other. However, if a bully came along to mess with my little brother then there was war. No one was allowed to pick on him but me and I wouldn't stand for someone else doing it because he is MY brother.
We are all brothers and sisters in Christ. It is normal for us to butt heads but we must not allow it to destroy our relationships because there is a bully out there trying to destroy the family of God. Our adversary the devil is out there to bully our brothers and sisters and we have a responsibility to our family to encourage them and build them up.
Once I finished sharing and encouraging the group we prayed together and forgiveness reigned in that place. This is how we mature together by overcoming these trials. We are just beginning this process but I know God is doing great things here in Littlefield.
God bless and keep you!
