7:03 AM
Psalm 119:58…I have seen the disloyal and feel disgust because they do not keep your Word.
Loyalty. That is a character quality I admire and it goes to the top of my list. I have always been a "company man". Like Sackett always said in Lamore's western classics: "I ride for the brand."
I admire those who are loyal to their church, for example, and keep the commitment they made when they first joined it. Through thick and thin they pray for, minister to, and protect the back of every member and pastor.
Disloyals cut and run when things aren't perfect; when they aren't appreciated the way they feel they deserve; when they aren't included in "the loop" for every decision. Disloyals withhold their pledge to support the church with tithes and offerings; with prayers and compassion; with heartfelt support.
Yes, I have seen the disloyal and feel disgust…especially when they greet me in public as if we're old friends and buddies -- as if nothing ever happened; as if the knife is not still in my back. They never gossiped about the church; they never criticized the pastor and called for his dismissal (as if they could dismiss the calling of God); they never bad-mouthed the church or the pastor to others in the community; they never suggested a new church start -- dividing the Bride of Christ -- where they and other disloyals could go do it their way.
Grace, compassion and forgiveness can mend the rift disloyals have created, but it requires confession, sorrow, and repentance. Confession, sorrow and repentance on one side…grace, compassion, and forgiveness on the other. Just like our relationship to God when we violate His trust and are disloyal to Him. Confession, sorrow and repentance on our part. Grace, compassion and forgiveness on His part. Unity is possible -- like anything else -- through our Lord Jesus Christ.
