Navigating Division in the Church: A Response Rooted in Wisdom and Grace

In recent weeks, we've witnessed a series of national events that have further highlighted divisions within our country and, inevitably, within our churches. As Christ followers striving to navigate these tumultuous times, Pastor Robin Maxson’s recent sermon provides us with timely wisdom on how best to respond, drawing insights from both Psalm 37:4 and the overarching message of Scripture.

Pastor Maxson emphasized the importance of understanding our relationship with God not through a lens of transactional expectation, as often seen in what he termed "contract theology," but rather as a call to delight in the Lord for who He is. This understanding is crucial when we consider how to address division within the church and beyond.

Here are some key takeaways for how we can respond to division with grace and wisdom:

1. **Delight in the Lord, Not in Division**: As Pastor Maxson explained, our primary task is to delight ourselves in the Lord. This means prioritizing our relationship with God over the fleeting satisfaction of proving a point or winning an argument. In times of division, let us first seek to cultivate peace and joy in God's presence, allowing His truth and love to guide our interactions with others.

2. **Embrace God’s Sovereign Purposes**: The sermon reminded us that God's plans are greater than our immediate desires or conflicts. When confronted with division, we must trust in His sovereign purposes. This trust calls us to act with patience and humility, recognizing that our understanding is limited but God's wisdom is perfect. Let’s step back from the chaos and ask ourselves: How can God use this situation to bring about growth and understanding within our community?

3. **Promote Unity Through Gratitude**: Pastor Maxson encouraged believers to be grateful for every fulfilled desire and good gift from God. In the same spirit, we should express gratitude for the diverse perspectives within our church. This diversity, when approached with love, can enrich our community and deepen our faith. A thankful heart resists the temptation to divide and instead seeks to build bridges.

4. **Pray Over Our Actions and Desires**: As suggested in the sermon, while praying for unity and healing within the church, we must also work actively towards these goals. As decisions and discussions unfold, we should consistently seek God's guidance, asking Him to align our desires with His will. Are we motivated by love, compassion, and a longing for God's kingdom, or are we driven by fear and control?

5. **Look to Future Fulfillment**: Lastly, Pastor Maxson reminded us of the ultimate fulfillment of our longings in the age to come. As we grapple with current divisions, we keep our eyes on the eternal promise of unhindered communion with God and His people. This future hope can inspire us to pursue reconciliation and peace, even when it's challenging.

In conclusion, the recent divisive events serve as a potent reminder of our call to be peacemakers and agents of God's love. As we delight in the Lord and respond to His generosity, we can effectively navigate our differences, trusting that God will use even our conflicts for His glory and our growth. By committing ourselves to these principles, we can witness impactful change and unity within our church and beyond.

May we seek God’s guidance wholeheartedly, confident in the transformative power of His grace. Amen.