FAITHdare #15: Pride-free Church

"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6).

One of the greatest gifts God has given His people is the gift of community. One of the most poisonous deterrents to God-centered community, however, is Pride. {Judging eyes and hearts. Long held grudges. Deadly secrets.} Any of those resound? In what way does Pride worm its way between you and faithful accountability with other believers?

Have you ever wondered what Church would be like without Pride? Would our faith communities be teeming with men and women free to expose the heart wounds they have hidden for years? Would we find ourselves in healthier relationships where "I'm sorry" and "I forgive you" are not just words? Would we be experiencing the journey of relationship with Jesus in new ways as we shared struggles openly? What would a Pride-free Church look like?

What if we stepped up to the task of building such a Church?

Are YOU allowing yourself to be vulnerable with the brothers and sisters God has placed around you?
Are YOU pleading with God to remove any judgments clouding your view of the Church?
Are YOU seeking out those who have only suffered condemnation from the Church thus far?
Are YOU taking the initiative to resolve conflicts immediately so that bitterness does not flourish?
Are YOU pursuing accountability?

Don't you think it's time to start? What's stopping you? PRIDE?

FAITHdare #15: Pride-free Church

Pray that God would place one initiative for a Pride-free Church on your heart. Take steps toward fulfilling that calling...whether that means finding an accountability partner, contacting someone to pursue reconciliation, inviting an "unchurched" person to church with you...Whatever it is, do it with this in mind:

"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6).