Sandpaper to the Mind

I have to admit something to you: Over the last 11 years of preaching, I have learned that I have a hard time getting along with some people in the church. There are some people that just rub you the wrong way, and I know that you agree with me because some of you have a picture in your head of someone in the church that's like sandpaper to the mind, or some situation that's left a foul taste in your mouth.

I have a hard time dealing with some people in the church who, doctrinally, will agree with me on most things. Here’s the point though: If I can’t get along with people who believe what the Bible teaches…then how much more of a challenge is it going to be for me when I meet someone who disagrees with most of what I believe?

I am a sinner, and I am a Christian. I’m at peace with God, through Christ…but just because I am at peace with God doesn’t mean that I am going to be in complete peace and harmony with all the people around me. There are going to be some not-so-peaceful conversations that I find myself in. There are going to be some less-than-cordial people who slam the door in my face, and threaten me to get off their property because of the truth I tell them about Christ, or because I try to (lovingly) bring them to the light. Telling the truth is tough...it brings conflict...but it's necessary.