Day 21 Message

      
Day 21 Readings

Day 21 - Protecting Your Church

Whose job is it to protect your church? I'll give you a hint, it isn't Superman. Every Christian has a responsibility to protect the church. Not protecting the building from super villains, but protecting the unity of the church. These attacks don't come from outside, they come from within.

It is our responsibility to stick together as a church. Those who don't work for the health of the church work against it. We are given several ways that each of us can protect our church.

Look for common ground. In the Christian church, we have the same God, the same Savior, the same hope, and so many other things that are taught very clearly in the Bible. Don't try to divide. Try to focus on what is common to all who claim Christ.
Be realistic. Other Christians are people too, and they make mistakes just like we all do. Be prepared to get hurt sometimes, knowing that we all need more of God in our lives.

Encourage. Most people criticize when they see what is wrong, instead of cheering on what is right. Those who encourage others will build up the church instead of tearing it down.

Refuse to gossip. Do you realize that just listening to someone gossip is gossiping? According to Rick Warren, "Gossip is passing on information when you are neither part of the problem nor part of the solution." If you let someone complain to you about things that are none of your business, you are tearing down the church.

Try resolving conflict God's way. Talk directly to the person.

Support your pastor and leaders. They aren't perfect, but they are trying. Pastors do the best they can with each situation as they know how. They may not make every decision correctly, but they are accountable to God for the responsibility of doing their best. By supporting them, you support the church.

Now you are ready to be a superhero. Go and protect your church!

Thinking about my Purpose:
Know. It is my responsibility to protect my church.
Remember. "Let us concentrate on the things which make for harmony and the growth of our fellowship together." -Romans 14.19 (Ph)
Think about it. What am I doing to protect [or tear down] the unity of my Church? What can I do about that today?

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