What to do when you are hurt by another Christian: Take Up Your Cross

By Jeff Arnette     Taking up one’s cross is a fundamental concept in Christian theology and discipleship. It derives from Jesus’ teaching that His followers must be willing to bear the cross, which symbolizes the difficulties, challenges, and even suffering that come with being a disciple of Christ. This concept is especially relevant when addressing hurt caused by fellow believers within the church.     When someone has been hurt by a fellow believer, taking up their cross means embracing the pain and difficulty of the situation while maintaining a Christ-like attitude. It involves recognizing the weight of the emotional burden, acknowledging the reality of the hurt, and working through it with faith and resilience.     One crucial aspect of taking up one’s cross in the context of church-related hurt is the commitment to forgiveness. Forgiveness is a central theme and it aligns with Jesus’ example on the cross when He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). This act of forgiveness is not a denial of the pain or a justification of the wrongdoing but a deliberate choice to release the offender from the debt of their actions.     Taking up your cross also means actively participating in the community of saints despite the challenges. It involves continuing to engage in the life of the church, exercising one’s spiritual gifts, and contributing positively to the body of believers. This commitment reflects a determination to overcome hurt and remain connected to the larger Christian family.     Moreover, taking up one’s cross entails a recognition that suffering for Christ is not an anomaly but an expected part of the Christian journey. In a culture that often promotes the idea of prosperity, health, and wealth, the reality of suffering can be downplayed or ignored. However, the Bible teaches that believers will face trials and tribulations. Embracing this reality with faith and endurance is an integral part of living out one’s faith.     In conclusion, taking up your cross when hurt by fellow believers in the church is about embracing the difficulties, choosing forgiveness, remaining engaged in the Christian community, and recognizing that suffering is an expected part of the Christian journey.

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