Reason Christians Hurt and Disappoint Me

 
It’s the weekend again. How was your week?
I had a busy week. I had a day out with friends to Lord’s Hill, and visited friends at their homes. Oh, my husband and I also attended a history lecture at Christian Heritage. An interesting lecture tracing the history of Christianity in England back to Joseph of Arimathea. 

At the beginning of this week, my friend and I went to another friend’s house.We had a long deep conversation and of course food. The rest of the week I pondered upon what we had discussed and here is my thoughts…

Christians are big failures and disappointments. 

I have a high standard and expectations for believers. And to be honest, I’m always being let down and disappointed. I did think that perhaps I brought this to myself. Maybe I shouldn’t have any expectations to safeguard my heart. 

After wrestling with this, talking about it with my husband, praying with friends, and asking for some advice, I am convinced that this high expectation for believers is not wrong. Scripture itself has high standards for Christians and they come with perfect grace. I have been made aware, by God’s grace, that extending the grace is what I often find difficult in my flesh. 

I am thankful for godly friends who have been praying and cheering for me on this. They always make me well-advised.

Current readings that are helpful

I started reading two new books this week:

1. The Necessity of Reforming the Church by John Calvin
2. Developing Your Discernment by John MacArthur

Both books have been helpful on this subject.
In The Necessity of Reforming the Church, Robert Godfrey (foreword) highlights the reality that

“Even sinners saved by grace not only get things wrong morally, but they get things wrong intellectually and theologically and liturgically and ecclesiastically.”

John MacArthur in his book urges believers to grow in discernment, including discerning correction—when and how we should correct fellow believers. Being corrected by our brothers and sisters is a sweet thing. It is an edifying act that encourages growth for both sides. I have been practicing this yet not everyone would agree. I observed that some would have stronger relationships with me while some would ‘dislike’ me. I tried to do the right thing yet ended up being hurt again.

Exploited Weaknesses

The devil is very active and wants to do all he can to discourage us and unfortunately he sometimes exploits the weakness in other Christians to do it.

I quote a friend here. Often I forget that our battle is not against flesh and blood. 
It is true that many Christians have let me down over time. Those who are supposed to be the shepherds, older ladies who are supposed to be the examples. Oh, how I wish hypocrisy in the church is only a myth. But, hey, myself is not an exception. I am sure have hurt and disappointed some, and have fallen into hypocrisy in one or more areas.

Grace and sanctification

Our calling to perfection remains and in our weaknesses and failures, God’s grace is sufficient. In our sanctification journey, the Lord will continue to work on refining each individual. Our gracious God will give us the strength and grace to press on.