Day Twenty-One: Protecting Your Church

"You are joined together with peace through the Spirit, so make every effort to continue together in this way." Ephesians 4:3

"Most of all, let love guide your life, for then the whole church will stay together in perfect harmony." Colossians 3:14

Stuff That Stuck Out:

• Nothing on earth is more valuable to God than His church.

HOW ARE WE TO PROTECT OUR CHURCH?

• Focus on what we have in common, not our differences.
• Be realistic in you expectations.
• Choose to encourage rather than criticize.
• Refuse to listen to gossip.
• Practice God's method for conflict resolution.
• "If a fellow believer hurts you, go and tell him--work it out between the two of you. If he listens, you've made a friend. If he won't listen, take one or two others along so that the presence of witnesses will keep things honest, and try again. If he still won't listen, tell the church."
• Support your pastor and leaders.

Point To Ponder: It is my responsibility to protect the unity of my church.

Verse To Remember: "Let us concentrate on the things which make for harmony and the growth of our fellowship together." Romans 14:19 (Ph)

Question To Consider: What am I personally doing to protect unity in my church family right now?