There's Hope For TodaySample

Some things never change.

The first church trouble we find recorded in the book of Acts centered on somebody being upset over neglect. I’m not saying that the problem was illegitimate, only that it seems to have survived the ages in spite of the appointment of deacons, committees, care teams, and associate pastors. If there is one thing I have learned in serving people, it is that you had better be fair and quick to make amends. Injustice and favoritism are fuel for the fires that consume our potential and scorch the fruit of a ministry.

The Apostles were quick to remedy the situation by appointing caregivers. When a slight is swept under the carpet, or a need neglected for a lack of compassion, bitterness grows. It seems that whatever is watered in tears outgrows everything else. The Apostles were wise men. They recognized that the need for ministry and reconciliation demanded that the caregivers be filled with the Spirit and with wisdom.

In an environment rife with hurt feelings and wounded hearts, we too must be full of the Spirit and wisdom. Anger, hurt and disappointment can only be conquered by the presence of a caregiver and the power of love.