(Matt. 18:21-35; Mark 9:38-41; Romans 14:3; Gal. 5:15; Rev. 22:14-15)

There are many complaining Christians who nitpick towards others who serve God just because they understand the Word of God differently. Many Christians develop one way thinking, which I call a Pharisee mind-set. They point the judgmental finger of “right and wrong” toward those they may or may not understand who serves God with all their heart, just like they do. Each having a heart that loves God; both struggling to survive this world, and wanting to make a stand for what they believe in. Making a stand is one thing, judgment is another, and we have to be careful not to cross that fine line. Yet, many (unknowingly most of the time) cross the fine line of judgment, toss the stone of offense, and thinking they are doing the right thing by saying and justifying their actions.

We are to love one another with the compassion of Jesus, and to actually step out in that love by holding our peace when we disagree, and just walk away. Read the above scriptures and consider the love Jesus has for all. Now think about (Rev. 12:11). “…and they did not love their lives to the death.” Too many Christians point the finger of right and wrong at their fellow neighboring denomination, yet they still have work within their own hearts and lives before the arrival of Jesus. We all have our point of view and scripture to make a stand of where we are coming from, but are we taking it to the point of loving our lives to the death? Do we love what we KNOW so much we are stealing one another testimonies, as the devil sits backs and enjoys our disarray?

This may seem harsh, and I apologize if it is, but I only say these things out of the sincere love of my heart for ALL who claim they are followers of the cross of Christ. Here in my little spot of the world, which I know is minute compared to cyber space and the actual universe, I see little love across denominational lines. Also, I have read many comments on the internet that have revealed many hard hearts toward one another. Both situations really sadden me, because it reveals how little Christians care for one another, which is nothing like the walk of Christ, and I think it is time for us who claim to be Christians to put all technicalities aside; place our swords (tongues) down and begin to serve one another in love.

Jesus said; He gave us a new command- “to love one another”. I can understand that it is hard to “love our enemies” that will always take work; however Jesus said, “For he who is not against us is on our side.” So, we must keep this in mind… There are going to be times when we disagree, and of course we are warned of those who are in error, so walk if you are not sure or happy with what someone says, simply be polite, excuse yourself, and walk away. Do not get angry or allow bitterness to take up residence within your heart toward someone who is trying just as hard as you. We are all just trying to make it here on earth.

When I decided to step out in what God has placed upon my heart it was in faith in what God is doing in all those who believe in him, and live for Jesus. Many times it was not easy; I have been told how wrong I am; and that I have blood upon my hands (however that is another blog in itself); anyways, I prayed about it and honestly I know and believe we serve a God who is loving, gentle, and kind! Who is faithful, never lies, and whose mercy endures forever! In addition to all of that I know Our God has endless possibilities for all he created and loves, because he is all powerful, all knowing, and understands each heart! His ways are so far beyond our, which is why we need to just slow down and be quiet while he works things out.

This brings me to serving a master as forgiving as ours, and the story Jesus tells in Matthew Chapter 18. There was a master; he forgave one servant who was not able to pay his debt, but that servant turned around and put a stranglehold on a servant for not being able to pay a tenth of what the first one owed. Although the first servant was forgiven much, he was unable to forgive a little.

Forgiveness is powerful! If we could forgive one another; truly forgive one another of the offense of “I’m right- you’re wrong” that has been happening with Christians for years something within us would break free and move us to a higher level of understanding the forgiveness of Our Master. Then we will know there is no need to be upset that we gave more and they gave little; or that we had more to forgiven then they, but we will embrace how the grace, mercy, and love of our Master permeates through each of us, making us all stand for his glory.