When dealing with controversy, it is vital that we deal with the issues, not with personalities. Sometimes, however, personalities will come into play and the issues will be more confused with the person involved. This is what makes controversy so “controversial” because feelings come into play.

That is why, in dealing with controversial issues, we need to swallow our pride and humble ourselves so we do not allow our feelings to get in the way of the issue itself. In Acts 15, Paul and Barnabas were sent to Jerusalem to discuss the issue of circumcision and keeping the Old Testament law with the apostles and elders there. What is interesting in this is that Paul himself was an apostle and knew the truth. He defended the truth against those who would bind other burdens upon the disciples. He could have gotten angry because the church at Antioch would not listen to him and sent him down to discuss this with others. But we don’t see that happening. He was humble enough to look out for what was best for the church and for those whom he had taught the gospel.

So often we make the mistake of thinking that our way IS the Lord’s way. We confuse His will with our will! We believe that because we want something it just has to be the Lord’s will! But this is not always the case. In Isaiah 55:8-9, we read, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.” (NKJV). The only way we can know for sure what is the Lord’s way, is if it is in the Bible.

Humility is a much needed commodity in the Lord’s church. Notice the following verses:

•Romans 12:16: “Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.” (NKJV)

•James 4:6-10: “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: ‘God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.’ Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.” (NKJV)

•1 Peter 5:5-7: “Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for ‘God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.’ Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” (NKJV)

God wants us to be humble enough to accept His will and obey it. He also wants us to be humble enough to put aside our pride, and ego and do what is best for the church. Are we willing to do this for the glory of the Lord and for His church? Let us hope so!

To be continued next week.