Numbers 16:28
I have experienced and heard of more than a few challenges to church leadership over the years. Often heard of in political circles but unfortunately too common in the church, the authority of leaders is questioned, undermined, disrespected and overridden. Church leaders have found themselves voted out, overthrown and discarded. To a certain extent it would be understandable if these actions were only undertaken as a result of consistant and unrepentant sin. However, often, it is because of a select few not being happy with decisions that have been made or the person in the role not meeting personal or traditional expectations. These select few start canvassing the congregation and through persuasive and sometimes aggressive tactics divide the people and gather support.
Imagine, if you will, if God dealt with divisive and dissident people in the church like he did when Korah, Nathan and Abiram rose up against Moses.
Imagine also if church leaders would appeal to God for his intervention, instead of either responding in the same manner to the situation or taking the confrontation personally.
Moses was sure of his calling and so handed those perpetrators over to God with such confidence and assurance in his faith and relationship with God.
How do you respond when others accuse you of something you have not done?
How do you respond when others undermined you or talk behind your back?
It is difficult, for sure, but how we respond in and to these situations is a measure of our faith and our assurance and our dependence in Jesus.
CamisGWare 