We are living in a very sensitive time. Everything we do or is done to us can lead to an over reaction. It is a very different time for churches as well. What once was is no more and what was once allowed is shunned upon. This is a great thing, however, it has leas us to become a very hyper sensitive people and everything, even if it is unintentional as many of us up in arms all the time. We wanted to share our opinion on how to navigate through church and not be in your feelings about what happens in church. We are all a work in progress and if we look at what happens with a more understanding and sensitive way, then we may fix what is wrong in church one smile and nod at a time.
Enter Church with no expectations but to receive what God has for you.
What is for you could Sister Johnson to pray for you. This may be a mild inconvenience to you but this could mean the world to her. Let her know you appreciate it and head to your seat. We believe that we have lost regard for one another and the specialness of a church family member available to focus their efforts on praying for you or showing concern. That's a blessing in disguise. What she did is what God wanted you to receive at that moment. Ephesians 6:18, "praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints."
2. Just Breathe!
We are so uptight and rigid about everything. Hyper sensitive and triggered by everything and everyone. We are making our space stuffy and not warm for others to feel comfortable around us. This could be what's contributing to us not being able keep our cool. "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires." James 1:19-20 God already knows His people thoroughly and know that when we are angry we won't say or do things that will glorify Him. If you're in a situation that you know can go left, then ask to be relieved or put a pin in that conversation until you're in a better space to talk or be around other people.
3. Pick Your Moments
If we really think about the matter, we can deicide if its worth a turn up or not? Does it really deserve that much energy or time? A simple smile and nod could turn away wrath. Proverbs 15:1 ESV / A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. If we're looking for a fight we can definitely have one, but is that going to change anyone's mind or the situation? No, it will not. It will have long term effects and can drive people away from a place God wants them to be. So we must be strategic or on purpose to be soft in our answers. However, there is always a time and a place to address matters that are much more serious than someone sitting where you wanted to sit in church.
4. Be Peace in the midst of Confusion
God is not the author of confusion, so our job as the body of Christ is to be great representatives of the principles He has left for us to adhere to and to follow. Don't allow yourself to be pulled into unnecessary confusion. Remain neutral and always see things that are not directly concerning you from a birds eye view. Many of us get this wrong. We are to be peacemakers not messy or to take sides. In Joshua 5:13 he asked the man who are you for us or our adversary and he responded neither. I'm here in the name of the Lord. That's how our approach need to be when drama happens or we're dragged into it. Let your response be I'm about my father's business and not anyone else's. Choose peace always.
There's a lot of things we deal with in the house of God, but don't let those things deter you from church or serving and believing in God. Church is a place of a place of healing and deliverance, not a hangout or social club. If we start to look at it this way, then we will approach church with a different mindset and heart.