Daily Reflections, Thursday, December 20, 2007

Today's Scripture: Romans 16:17-20

My friend, Ray Pritchard, author and speaker, describes the typical troublemaker in a church. In a sermon entitled, "Trouble in the Church," he says, "Even though the issues differ from place to place, cantankerous people tend to share common traits. For instance, they often have a track record of previous misbehavior. They have caused trouble in other churches or on the job or they have disputes with their neighbors or with the school board. Unhappy people tend to be unhappy everywhere. Second, they tend to be in contact with a vast company of ‘nameless others’ who share their concerns. They claim to represent a host of other frustrated people who for some reason are never actually named. They sometimes become quick friends—too quickly—so that they can claim to feel betrayed by you later. They flatter, then they attack."

If you’re in a Bible-believing church, you can be sure the enemy will employ people to undermine the work of a church.

In Romans we read that we’re supposed to avoid people who cause disharmony and spread gossip. It’s your job to be loyal and support your pastor. It’s your job to try and keep unity in your church.

Be a loyal soldier and avoid the troublemakers.

Today's Quote:  Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. Romans 16:17