There exists a deceitful notion propagated by satan, asserting that if an individual representing God or occupying a position of godliness wrongs me, it implies God is at fault. Similarly, if I suffer harm within the confines of a church, the blame is placed on the entire institution, creating an impression of systemic issues that erode trust in any church thereafter. Strangely, we don't apply this rationale in other aspects of life. Individual conduct is just that – individual, particularly when it is overtly anti-Christ or ungodly.

While it's true that certain small "c" church systems may be flawed and have led to failures, these instances don't accurately reflect the overall character of the Bride of Christ. It's crucial not to succumb to the falsehood that the entire church is culpable for the actions of a few who falsely claimed representation. God's character stands in stark contrast to these wolves who prey on unsuspecting Christ followers. Therefore, we must exercise caution in selecting a church to call home and the people we associate with within it. We should know the character of those we let into our lives and our children's lives. The fact is not everyone within a church is motivated by genuine faith or follows the path of Jesus. Church leadership should function as vigilant shepherds, discerning potential wolves seeking to infiltrate and cause harm.

In the face of adversity, how do we practically navigate and handle the pain? Let's delve into this journey together.

BAD CONDUCT BY “GODLY PEOPLE” DOES NOT EQUAL GODS CHARACTER

JESUS CAME TO SEEK & SAVE THOSE WHO WERE LOST AND REVEAL THE FATHER AND IN DOING SO CONFRONTED THE WORLDLY REPRESENTATIVES OF GOD. HE SHOWED WHAT PEOPLE DO DOES NOT ALWAYS REVEAL THE GOODNESS OF GOD.

1 John 1:5

This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.

James 1:17

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

Psalm 116:5

The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.

Psalms 68:19-20

Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens. 20 Our God is a God who saves; from the Sovereign LORD comes escape from death.

Psalm 84:11-12

For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. 12 LORD Almighty, blessed is the one who trusts in you.

WHAT OR WHO DEFINES YOU?

John 10:10 (ESV)

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

Notice who accomplishes what! The fruit of it determines the author of it!

WHO WE LET DEFINE US IS WHO WE LET DIRECT US.

I CAN LET WHAT HAPPENED TO ME DEFINE ME OR I CAN DUMP THAT AND LET GOD DEFINE ME AS HIS.

This is a challenge to overcome the way we perceive ourselves or the Church Jesus loves, especially when our internal thoughts have been critical or unproductive. Identifying the triggers for these false beliefs is essential in determining when and how to confront them with the force of truth:

• This happened to me because God hates me

• I must be a failure or unworthy of love

• The church is evil and unloving

• All churches are this way

•  I can never trust God or people again

• I don't believe in God now

Combat it with truth!

I AM NOT WHAT HAPPENED TO ME.

I AM A CHILD OF GOD AND WHAT HAPPENED TO JESUS IS WHAT DEFINES ME.

HIS BLOOD SPEAKS TO MY WORTH.

This world is evil and its god is as well.

My God is faithful and redemptive now and for eternity - I know this is world is not my home!

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