“Church engagement is not an option for Jesus’ lovers but a necessity to grow and flourish.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – March 14, 2025
See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. Hebrews 12:15
Like people, the church sometimes lets us down—even hurts us. Some of us may still stew in the memory or in a current situation of disappointment and, in some cases, devastation. The church can inflict pain in various ways, intended or unintended. Religious hypocrisy may cause shame and judgment over one’s struggle with sin. A leader’s abuse of power feels like manipulation instead of encouragement toward spiritual growth. Sadly, exclusion, gossip, or betrayal leads to the feeling of abandonment for those suffering in isolation. Moral failure in leadership can lead to disillusionment and distrust for church members who look up to their Pastor. Just like siblings get into occasional squabbles, brothers and sisters in Christ will experience conflict. Hurt is real.
Thankfully, and by God’s grace, the church is still the Body of Christ. Someday, the Lord will present His bride to Himself without a blemish or wrinkle. In the meantime, the imperfect church that sometimes inflicts pain is the bride of its perfect Savior and Lord Jesus Christ, who brings healing and wipes away every tear. Enemies of the church revel in the thought of Jesus’ followers being estranged from His Body that He gave His life to redeem and restore into the right relationship with God and fellow human beings. So, why give the church another chance?
The church may have hurt you, and that pain is real. But don’t let human failures deter you from experiencing the beauty of God’s design for community. Not all churches are alike—there are grace-filled, loving places where healing can take place. The church consists of imperfect people, but Christ still calls us to be part of His body. Give the church another chance—not for those who disappoint, but for Jesus, who never disappoints. If you have children, you have a brief window of time for their hearts to experience the good church offers. Invite the Holy Spirit to guide you to a place where you can grow, heal, and find authentic Christ-centered fellowship. Church engagement is not an option for Jesus’ lovers but a necessity to grow and flourish.
How can you or someone you love begin to experience the ongoing healing process and enjoy the freedom and love of a Christ-centered community? Healing after church hurt takes time, but it’s doable. First, acknowledge your pain—it’s real, and God cares about it. Don’t suppress your feelings; bring them to Him in prayer. Separate God’s character from human failure—people may fail you, but God never will. If someone you love is struggling, listen with empathy, without forcing them to “move on” too quickly. Find a healthy, Christ-centered community where grace and love are present. Not all churches are equal. Ask God for wisdom in finding a place where you feel safe and valued. Forgiveness is key—not for them, but for your heart’s freedom. Forgiveness doesn’t excuse hurt, but it releases bitterness. Focus on Jesus to rebuild your faith. His love is constant; He wants you to experience true fellowship again. Love forgives fast.
God’s love surpasses your mistakes and the failures of others, and His forgiveness is freely given. No matter what you’ve done or how you’ve been hurt, He wipes the sin slate clean. When you genuinely experience His grace, it transforms you. His love fills your heart, creating space for you to forgive others—not because they deserve it but because you’ve been fully forgiven. Allow His love to liberate you from bitterness and fill you with peace. Generous love heals hurt.
Prayer
Lord, I surrender my hurt to You. Heal my heart and fill me with Your love. Help me forgive those who hurt me, just as You have forgiven me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Application
Attend a healthy church this Sunday and look for the good and beautiful.
Related Reading
Matthew 16:18; Acts 2:42; Ephesians 4:11-12; Hebrews 10:24-25
Worship Resource
Jenn Johnson, Bethel Music: The Church
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