Critical Critics Often Aren't

I think it's safe to say, that next to politicians and government, few professions receive receive as much criticism for who they conduct themselves in the world in comparison and contrast to how people perceive they should, than pastors and Christians.

Sadly, the criticism often comes from those inside the church, just as much as does outside the church, both in attitudes towards pastors and other Christians. This is sad on many levels; primarily though because Satan would desire little more than to divide and conquer the church from the inside out. If he can pull people away, if he can pull pastors out; if he can create opportunities for offense, hurt, distrust and chaos... by whatever means necessary to destroy whatever health a church may be experiencing.

I don't want to rehash pastor's entire sermon on criticism yesterday, which was a powerful message; that while there are times when criticism is genuine and constructive, it has destroyed many pastors when it was neither.
Which brings me to the profound statement he made, or more likely, referenced; but I failed to notate on my table who said first...

"There are those who have enough steam to blow the whistle, but not enough to power the engine."

This is exactly why we need to be careful in our criticism and attacks on leaderships. Should we place them in positions and decisions where they step off and step down from running the engine, suddenly you'll be going nowhere and who will step in, to keep the church, the organization, the family unit... moving in the direction that was laid before you; the plan and purpose God had called you to fulfill?

With no one at the helm, criticism will quickly place you in a position where you will be considered SOL.

So. Outta. Luck.

Meanwhile, criticism, done wrong will destroy a person, a pastor and a ministry. Just the kind of thing you want to be responsible for, especially if you are a Christian and active in the church.

Thanks for joining me, as we begin the 15th month of #pray4pastors.

On this first #seniorPastorMonday of the month, pray for churches struggling with an overarching spirit of criticism about their culture. Pray it be removed by the power of the Holy Spirit. May such environments witness a shift, to encourage and uplift the body of Christ and pastors and leaders in the church. Pray the genuine, warranted criticism would find it's proper place and achieve an effective result; whereby the church is strengthened, mature and healthy. Pray for pastors struggling with their response to criticism; for those where the barrage has burnt them out or has placed them on the verge; for those contemplating their next steps... may they be reminded of who they are in Christ and the calling and anointing placed on their lives. May the view criticism in it's proper context and respond appropriately, as the Holy Spirit reveals the truth of the matter to them. Pray the church would find balance and health in this area; to improve areas that would bring honor and glory to God while strengthening the gifts and abilities God has placed upon people and ministries that would impact communities for the cause of Jesus Christ.

Words of blessing; not cursing.
Life and health; rather than death and destruction.
Building up the body of Christ
For the glory of God.

- PNC

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