Look to Scripture for how to treat each other
“Then, if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14
We are in the middle of a challenging time.
I know of families that are divided because of this situation and what is going on. How do we handle it? Do we get annoyed with each other and break ties with one another?
This even happens in the church. I believe this is simply not necessary.
It is good to disagree about things. Sometimes we disagree with one another's views. Again, this is normal.
But, here is my question. Isn't it possible that no one has all the answers? No one person or group has the right to claim all knowledge of how to solve the country's illness and division. The more we discuss it, the more we are divided.
So, what do we do?
First, we humble ourselves and realize that all leaders are people. They could never have all the truth.
Second, we pray and seek God's face. This is a no-brainer here. If we stop looking at each other and to human leaders, we begin to look up to find the face of God.
Third, we turn from our wicked ways. Here's a clue: Find out what the Scripture says and follow it. Find out what Jesus said about how we are to treat each other, and then do it.
Read the Gospels again.
Read Paul's letters again.
Go back to the Word of God during these down days.
Listen, and change all the things you are doing that does not please God.
Sound too simple? Well, maybe.
Call me a pragmatist, but I'm just reading the Word for what it says. No condemnation of anyone, although we might disagree on some earthly things. Humble ourselves, pray seeking God's face, stop doing the things that displease God. Worry about you, not about everyone else's point of view and how wrong or right they are.
So, what is the result of doing these things?
Good news. God will forgive our sins and heal our land.
Simple? Yes. Practical? Yes. Common sense? You bet.
So, let's do it.
The Rev. Ron Schermerhorn is the pastor of Mount Chestnut Presbyterian Church.
