Sunday, January 14, 2024

What to do when you are hurt by another Christian: Humility and Surrender

By Jeff Arnette


    Humility is a foundational virtue in the Christian faith, and it plays a pivotal role in addressing hurt caused by fellow believers within the church. At its core, humility involves recognizing our limitations and acknowledging that we are not in control of every aspect of our lives or the lives of others.
    When it comes to relationships within the church, humility encourages believers to relinquish the notion that they can control or change the behavior of others. It calls for a surrender of the desire to micromanage spiritual growth or impose one’s will on fellow believers. This surrender is not an admission of defeat but rather an acknowledgment that God alone is sovereign and capable of effecting transformation in the hearts of individuals.
    Humility also fosters a sense of grace and patience. It allows individuals to view their fellow believers through a lens of understanding, recognizing that everyone is on their unique journey of sanctification. Some may have advanced further in their spiritual growth, while others are still in the early stages. Humility enables us to accept these differences and exercise patience when others stumble or make mistakes along the way.
    Moreover, humility serves as a powerful antidote to pride and self-righteousness. When individuals acknowledge their own vulnerabilities and shortcomings, they become less prone to judgment and condemnation. Instead of pointing fingers, they are more inclined to extend a hand of compassion and support to those who have caused them pain.
    In essence, humility and surrender are key principles in addressing hurt within the church because they promote a Christ-like attitude of servitude, compassion, and grace. They help individuals release the burden of trying to control others and place their trust in God’s transformative work.


- Jeff Arnette preaches for the Central Haywood church of Christ, Clyde, NC.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: https://centralhaywoodcoc.com/



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