This is a topic that is very prevalent in most churches today, but often it is glossed over, excused as just “life in a fallen world”, and sadly a topic that many pastors and leaders are ill-equipped to handle. It often brings with it shame, the exposure of bad choices, and the reminder that we need each other to overcome much in our life. The statement often used is “it takes getting in the mud with someone, to get them out of the ditch.” And therein lies the majority of the reluctance to endure and support one through the trials and shortcomings that we all face.
This reluctance leaves many to live a “double life, a secret life” of struggle. Roms 8:28 tells us that all things work together for the good, to those that are called according to HIS PURPOSE. Yet sharing the struggles of life, admitting that you feel lesser than..or flat out admitting that you are hurting is seen often as giving “The Devil” glory, so the wounded heart stays troubled.
Many pastors and leaders are ill-equipped to handle this because they also have unresolved struggles. SPOILER ALERT!! We all struggle at times. I know that ultimate healing comes only from God, but doing life together through the ups, downs, bad choices, temporary lapses of judgment, selfishness and maybe even rebellion, only makes the healing, the praise reports, and newfound freedoms even more rewarding. Dealing with or ministering to a broken heart from a position of past victory in any area of hopelessness or despair, not only brings God into the scenario but also brings physical credibility into the equation. In other words “been there, done that” testimony to the recipient. Many find relief just from the fact that they realize that they are not alone.
I strongly believe that the Church is a sanctuary of salvation: but I even more so believe it is a hospital for the hurting Christian who often sits in silence hiding their pain. I pray that our sensitivity to our brothers and sisters does not get lost in Sunday services that seem to have become the main focus. Bring your hurts to God, then minister to the hurting!!!
Marty Martin
Rightlydividing1@gmail.com
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