I was having one of my deep philosophical discussions with a friend the other day and we had almost solved most of the world’s problems when we started talking about war. While we were both in agreement that war is a terrible thing, we couldn’t quite figure out how to avoid them! There are so many bad things about war, but I think one of the worst tragedies occurs when some of our troops are wounded or killed by friendly fire!
You know, it got me to thinking that this tragedy often occurs in God's army too! We are sometimes deeply wounded, shot down, if you will, by our own! All too often we get hurt, betrayed or disappointed by folks who claim to be Christians. Maybe you know all too well the disillusionment and pain this can cause. If you've been spiritually wounded by friendly fire, my heart goes out to you, but more importantly, I want you to know that God's heart is also touched by your pain!
What can you do if you’ve been wounded by friendly fire? I think the Hebrew writer gives us some great advice when he says, “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Heb. 12:2) You see, I think what he’s saying to us is that we need to get your eyes off other Christians and remember that our main objective is to keep our eyes fixed and focused on our commander in chief: Jesus!
My friend, even if you’ve been spiritually wounded, whatever you do, don't take your eyes off Jesus! Don’t allow disappointment to cause you to withdraw from the Lord. You've never needed Him more than you do right now! God never intended for you to try to live the Christian life all alone. If you're holding back from getting close to some of your brothers and sisters in Christ, remember that there are many Christians who won't wound you. Most Christians, while imperfect, are genuinely loving people and all of us need to be a part of a church like that; (a church like the one here at Pinnacle!). Now more than ever, you need the church and the church needs you!
Hey, we all need to watch out for friendly fire; it can be a terrible thing but don’t let it cause you to miss the joy of heaven! Remember, Jesus never said, "Follow My followers" or "Follow My leaders." He said, "Follow Me." It's all about Jesus - the One who died for our sins so we wouldn't have to. Ultimately, all that's going to matter, (really, all that matters now), is keeping your eyes on Jesus. If you've never fully given yourself to Him as Lord and Savior, I urge you to accept Him by obedience to the gospel today!
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