Are You Upset and Concerned? Have Questions?     
 

by Greg Gwin

 

Do you wonder why things are done the way they are done? Do you have questions about the work, worship or operation of the congregation? Does it seem that there are things going on that you don't understand? Are there issues floating around that trouble you? Are there times when you don't really agree with the decisions that are being made? If so, join the club! We all face the kind of questions and concerns that we've just described. The big question is not: Will such issues arise? The question is: How will YOU deal with these things when they happen? Let us offer some do's and don'ts for handling these potentially difficult situations. DON'T… - Don't get angry and upset before you have gathered all the facts. - Don't gossip or backbite. This doesn't help, and it is a sin (Proverbs 6:19). - Don't complain if you don't intend to get busy correcting the problem. Typically, churches have way too many fault-finders, and not enough problem solvers. - Don't immediately assume the worst about your brethren. Too often we hear harsh judgmental words about the elders, the preacher, or other member's before the facts have all been sorted out. True love demands better than this (2 Cor. 13:4-7). DO... - Ask for information. Very often any disagreement or controversy can be quickly cleared up this way. - If there is a problem, go directly to the source. Speak to the one(s) involved and work for a solution. - Pray for wisdom in dealing with the problem, asking for God's help to do and say the right things (Jas. 1:5). - Maintaining sound doctrine is the highest priority (Gal 1:8,9), but maintaining peace must also be an important goal for every member (Eph. 4:1-3).      Other Articles by Greg Gwin Two Kinds of Workers Is Your Heart Right With God? You're Not Going to Change Me! Complaints About the Church Did Jesus Use Carnal Methods to Attract Crowds? I Don't Love Her Anymore A Problem Area For Preachers The Mark of the Beast How to Know What God Wants Me to Do Role Models Would You Allow This?   For Past Auburn Beacons go to: www.aubeacon.com/Bulletins.htm   Anyone can join the mailing list for the Auburn Beacon! Send your request to: larryrouse@aubeacon.com