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| The Fig Tree |
We have been going through a situation in our now "previous" church that has caused some great division and dissension amongst the family of believers. Needless to say, this has mad me very sad. It seems like this "thing" has grown legs and sprouted tentacles and is entangling people. Rumors are being spread and there has been division caused between people who love each other and have such good, sweet hearts. It is so sad to see the body of Christ act the way I have witnessed it acting the past few weeks. But, God is good and I know he is working all things together for the good of His people and for His glory. Yet, it is still a hard thing to witness.
A sweet friend of mine reminded me this morning of the following verse and I thought I would share it with you. It comes from the book of James, chapter 3, verses 8-18:
| New International Version |
8but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
9With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be! 11Can both fresh water and salta water flow from the same spring? 12My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
Two Kinds of Wisdom
13Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. 16For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
17But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.
My prayer for all of those still drudging through this situation is for them be peace-loving, full of mercy, bearers of good fruit, impartial and sincere. You see, when we align ourselves with Scripture and what God's Word says, there can be no room for division - He will show you the truth and the light and, in turn, you will know where you are supposed to be, whether that be at your current church or another. He is truth and light. He will reveal Himself to you and show you Truth. No darkness can dwell within us or around us if we are in His will. Oh if only people would we humble their hearts then God would turn His gaze upon them and bless them. Lord, help us to be humble..........
Peace ~ Melissa
