The church is built on relationships.
Firstly, there is our relationship with God. Secondly, there is our relationship to those around us in the church. Thirdly, there is our relationship to those not yet in the church. How we are operating in one sphere will affect the other spheres.
When I am angry towards someone in the church or at work, this attitude will impact on my relationship with God.
Anger is a strong emotion; therefore Jesus said that we should not let the sun go down on our anger. Yet, amongst God’s people I sense and see anger.
This anger outworks in many ways. Unforgiveness towards someone else, remaining in a state of hurt, lack of patience or fits of rage.
The enemy will use our anger. He wants us to have flawed relationships. He will even make us feel justified in remaining angry.
However, prolonged anger leads to the hurting of ourselves/others around us and prolonged hurt leads to bitterness.
I would also add that angry people are not pleasant people to be around.
Galatians 5:22 and 23 says this ‘But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. Against such things there is no law.’ Our relationships within NLC should be built on the characteristics of the the Spirit.
When I am speaking with people I always ask myself what is my motivation for saying this to them? Is it out of kindness, faithfulness etc.
Kindness in a relationship is being faithful, sometimes pointing out what the other person may not want to hear. Gentleness does not mean that we fail to correct each other. Goodness should mean that we want the best for the other person, encouraging them into all that God has for them.
Good friends do not gossip about you or speak unkindly about you when you are not present. A good friend will speak to you face to face, even when tough words need to be said. I only want to be part of a church where relationships are open, honest and accountable. Moreover, I only want to lead a church where the characteristics of the Spirit are evident.
Have a good week, Rob
Miracle House
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