In the Name of...

Have you ever met someone (or a whole lot of someone's) who claim to be Christian then turn that claim into something for their selfish gain or abuse the responsibility they have with claiming the Name of Christ?

I know we've all seen the televangelists and heard of many teachers and pastors who do this, but have you ever experienced it personally?

I did, a few months ago. I had met someone who claimed to be a Christian, and by all initial outward appearances, he fit what he was saying. The reality though, was far different. The lies – not just to me, but to others as well, the arrogance, attitude issues, treatment of me and the thing – Major. Control. Issues.

 He would get bent out of shape because I didn't do exactly as he said, but when I would try to call him on something, he would protest, "we aren't dating, you have no right to say that." Um, what? He also had (has) some serious issues of the heart. I mean, honestly, we all have issues of some kind, but not everyone is an extreme control freak making unreasonable demands with even more unreasonable expectations of everyone but himself. There are many other aspects of this person that cause me to take a step back and be extremely thankful that God was protecting me throughout the entire ordeal.

Sometimes you just gotta find out the hard way. Typically, that is how it works for me. I don’t do anything the easy way, it seems, but I believe I have FINALLY learned the lesson God has been trying to teach me. Again. And Again. And Again. It hurts for a little while, and then you deal with the anger. I've been angrier at myself than anything or anyone else. How did I not see THAT coming (again)? How could I have been so blind and allowed that person in my life? I should have known something was up when he demanded I give up something that is of vital importance to me – something that has been a part of my life for nearly 20 years?

James 3:15-17 (NASB)

¹⁵ This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. ¹⁶ For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. ¹⁷ But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy.

I am NOT saying this guy is demonic… far from it. I AM saying there are other issues – maturity, faith (not for me to question how real), self-esteem, and other personal crisis’s that affect how a person treats those they claim to care for. I do hope he gets the help he needs, and maybe will listen to his friends who care for him. It is painful to see one person wreck their own life, but when they unwittingly drag others along with them, the damage can last for generations.

Philippians 2:2-4 (NASB)

² make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. ³ Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; ⁴ do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.

One phrase stands out to me, "do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit" and helps me to see and understand how I do not want to be. We all do things out of selfish intent from time to time, but in most cases, do not mean to intentionally harm another with our actions. There are no words to express how humbling it is to have gone through the same thing more than once, not realizing or not opening your eyes, to see the truth. Growth is painful, but it is necessary if we are to do the things God wants us to do.

Do not blind yourself to the things God is trying to teach you. When you read the Word, read with your heart open, not just your eyes. KNOW Him.. truly.

 

Side note: This guy could use your prayers, and so can the ones who have no choice but to be around him. I sincerely hope God shows him the right way, and he listens. Breaking these habits won’t be easy, and may take a long time, but I know, through Christ, it can be done.