If the Holy Spirit is allowed to guide the process, then God is able to bring unity to the whole even through confrontation.
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Scripture
Nehemiah 5:6-8
“I was very angry when I heard their outcry and these words. I took counsel with myself, and I brought charges against the nobles and the officials. I said to them, “You are exacting interest, each from his brother.” And I held a great assembly against them and said to them, “We, as far as we are able, have bought back our Jewish brothers who have been sold to the nations, but you even sell your brothers that they may be sold to us!” They were silent and could not find a word to say.”
Observation
Nehemiah was angry, and with good cause. God was accomplishing great things among His people, and leading them in restoration of the city of Jerusalem. They were in the midst of conflict and attacks from their enemies, and should have been operating in unity against the external threats…and yet they had encountered a threat from within. There were those in the community who had chosen to take advantage of the situation, and were trying to gain personal benefit by mistreating their fellow Israelites instead of working in unity with them.
Nehemiah confronted their ungodly attitude, and his willingness to confront the situation resulted in God being glorified, and the people walking forward in unity.
Application
There are times when the heart of God requires an issue to be confronted. When ungodly attitudes start to creep in, when selfish motives begin to manifest, when the enemy begins to gain a foothold and leverage–Godly character requires that someone be bold enough to speak up and say “Enough!”
It is easier to simply sit back and hope that the situation improves–but God operates through men and women who have the courage to follow His leading, even when the path is uncomfortable. If this confrontation comes through fleshly motives and human wisdom, then further division and discord is inevitable–but if the Holy Spirit is allowed to guide the process, then God is able to bring unity to the whole even through confrontation.
This week, I pray for the wisdom of God to know when to be silent and when to speak. I pray for His will to be accomplished and His unity to prevail, even when confrontation becomes necessary.
Prayer
God, thank you for your unchanging heart! Thank you that you are a solid rock, even when the world becomes crazy and people display their fallen nature and imperfection. Give me wisdom this week to navigate each conversation with your heart–to demonstrate your love, to stand on your truth, and to fight for unity in you.
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