Rethinking my advice

In the past year and a half or so I’ve had conversations with two people who were strugging with issues at our church. They were both hurting and disillusioned. Although our church is a good church, Biblically sound and full of lots of good people, in both of these instances I encouraged them in their desire to find another church. “The Kingdom is big” I said.

I guess I thought that finding a new place that fit them better and offered healing would be a good thing.

The problem is, neither of these people – to my knowledge – is going to church anywhere now. I should have urged them (as others did) to stay at the church and work things out. I thought I was being the less legalistic one, the more gracious one. Boy was I wrong.

I really regret my advice now. I think it was used for evil, and not for good. And I’ll never give advice like that again.

2 thoughts on “Rethinking my advice

  1. Bill, sometime when someone is “unhappy” in the church they are at, it is God urging them to seek another fellowship where they can grow. Sometimes they need to stay in the fellowship they are in at the time. One of the Holy Spirit’s responsibilities is directing in this area. I believe the best advice is to ask the person to seek God’s will through prayer in this and that you will be praying for them and God’s will to be done. And just be there for them when they need you. Don’t stop giving wise, prayed through, Godly counsel.

    That’s my “advice.” Love ya.

  2. Thanks Papa

    I agree that sometimes people need to move on. But the people in question here had unresolved hurts and issues. I realize now they should have been urged to stay at least until those were resolved.

    But you’re right – the real answer is for each person to seek God’s direction earnestly.

    Thank Virgil! love ya too

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