Divided We Fall

"A house divided against itself cannot stand."-Abraham Lincoln

Actually, Lincoln was not the first one to say this. Jesus was. He said this phrase when He was accused of casting out demons by the power of Satan. Lincoln quoted this in reference to the status of the Union during the Civil War. I think it is interesting to look at what divides us as people: Race, Economics, Religion, Social Class, and many others. Looking at this list, I do not see reason. To separate yourself from another person based upon these reasons is ridiculous! Paul understood that!

What stood out to me: Verses 14-16 say, "For He Himself is our peace, who make both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, which is the Law of commandments contained in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two into one new man, thus establishing peace, and might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the enmity."

Why this stood out to me: Many of you know Staff Training week is rapidly approaching! One of the greatest threats to the summer team is disunity. The enemy will try to attack in any and every way he can. He does not want the ministry of camp to happen. Frustrations will run high, and people will get on each others nerves, and things can get out of control really quickly. This emphasis on unity is crucial to the success of summer ministry.

What can I do in my life: First off, I need to train my staff how to handle conflict in healthy ways. One of our first sessions is about handling conflict. We spend three months with each other and get to know one another pretty well. The second thing I can do when I am in a situation where I am challenged is to talk through the situation before I make a decision. I can get pretty worked up before I talk with someone, and that is not OK at all. I will seek to understand where the person is coming from first before I respond to them.

Tomorrow I will be reading in Ephesians 3:1-13. Can't wait!
In His service,CrazyPete