Rage or Restraint

Sometimes it amazes me that Christians have a way of creating and causing trouble for one another. Some people have been so troubled by this that it cause them to stop fellowshipping altogether. This kind of trouble goes contrary to the unity that Christ called for in the church. But the fact is it happens; and unfortunately it stymies’ many churches and Christians.

If you find yourself in this situation you could handle this in several ways that produce what we call flesh results. A flesh result may make you feel better at the time, however, long run it ruins fellowship and never really solves anything. Sure, we can stomp our feet, scream at someone, or worse return the injustice by starting rumors with our antagonist as the star. For a few moments we feel justified, but what have we solved?

David repeatedly found himself in these situations. This may even be the cost of leadership in his life. He felt the pain and offered these thoughts in Psalm 4 to Jehovah and shared them with us. (How long will you people ruin my reputation? How long will you make groundless accusations? How long will you continue your lies?  Psalm 4:2) I am so glad he shared. It seems that he handled this particular situation through a spirit filled approach of prayer, restraint, and worship.

Troubles will come our way and sometimes from places and people that surprise. How will you respond? Let’s walk the pathway of royalty after all the Bible identifies us this way. But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. (1 Peter 1:9).

So, here’s my pathway:

Spirit filled Prayer (Psalm 4:3)

3 You can be sure of this:

The LORD set apart the godly for himself. The LORD will answer when I call to him.

Spirit practiced Restraint (Psalm 4:4)

4 Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent.

Spirit infused Worship (Psalm 4:5)

5 Offer sacrifices in the right spirit, and trust the LORD.