http://pastordanwaits.tumblr.com/
So I just heard on the news one of those “teasers” for a story after the commercial. Right before the break the news anchor said, about the story, “Not everybody likes this idea.” I think that can be the new motto of our society. Everybody wants something done, but nobody wants to work together, give concessions, or maybe even change their mind. So the net result? Complaining, and lots of it! And it really boils down to somebody somewhere not liking something. Sounds too simple to be true, but when I look around, listen, and watch the news, I hear a lot of complaining; some of it is justified.
This has also been the path of many Christians; whining and complaining to get their way. At this point, I imagine someone will take issue with my accusation. All anyone has to do is go to most established churches and you’ll hear more complaining about what’s going on within the church, then you will with anything else. Christians have become synonymous with passing judgment and complaining.
Sadly, what many people outside the church don’t see is that a lot of churches and their members are changing this tide of whining and complaining (including RCN). The Bible says complaining is not only worthless, it’s a sin and we are not to do it. In fact, we are bluntly told to allow problems (or, allow Jesus through our problems) to develop our character and be filled with joy! So, while the world around us is bickering because “Not everybody likes this idea”, our church is choosing to allow Jesus to build our character, unity, and in some cases, even our minds!