Some people are treating me as if I’m not welcomed anymore. Should I leave or put up with them?
Question:
Several members at my church are treating me like I'm no longer wanted there. When I try to talk to them they don't want to hear it. It is really hard to think of leaving, I've been there all my life. My dad was a founding member of this congregation. Should I leave or put up with them?
Answer:
Several is not all of the members. I don't know the cause of the trouble, but no matter where you go, you will always find people who do not act as they should. And the reality of the situation is that running away doesn't solve the problem. Instead, you need to follow the principles God laid out for solving problems:
"Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. Therefore "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:17-21).
"See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all" (I Thessalonians 5:15).
"Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing" (I Peter 3:8-9).
