Against this there is no law

Hurt people....Hurt people.  It is somehthing we hear all the time from those who tend to want to make excuses for people who lack the self control to keep their mouths shut.  The sad truth is this is almost always true.  I am not trying to give people a pass but I am learning that almost without exception people who tend to be in the midst of gossip groups and turmoil are themselves really hurting.  The same is true for those who hurt us personally.  

However...even though we know this when we are the subject of these unfortunate things our first thought is to want to cut off or cut out these people from our lives.  Don't do it!  if you cut out all the people who have ever hurt you or had the potential to hurt you, one ends up alone.  Just as we wish those that hurt us wold practice self control when dealing with others...we too have to practice self control when dealing with the hurt they cause us.  

I have dealt with a lot of people over the years in ministry.  I have dealt with the overprotective mom, whose real problem was her lack of self esteem.  I have dealt with the Church boss, whose real problem was that his financial security was threatening the way of life he had alway known.  I have dealt with the judgmental person, whose real problem was breaking free from oppresive upbringings.  I have dealt with jealous family members, whose real problem was they were upset they did not take risks that their brother or sister did.  You name it I have been attacked, beaten up and marginalized by hurt people.  

I wish I could tell you that I have always dealt with these people with self control.  I can't say that. However for those whom I was able to exercise this important biblical concept the relationship I have with them while not perfect is one of trust and love.  Now...the real meat of what I am talking about with you today. 

Hurt people are all around you.  They are in your family, job and even in your church.  Don't avoid them, don't argue with them, don't write them off.  Love them through their hurt...even if they are hurting you in the process.  Your help comes from the Lord.  Let your consistent love overcome the tendecy to protect yourself.  

I know this is hard.  But I promise you it is worth it.  Just a thought

In His Awesome Grip,

Pastor Scott