When you think of a dragon, you may go back in your mind to those medieval days. But I am not talking about dragons of centuries past. I am talking about present-day dragons. Some people feel they have a dark cloud surrounding them where ever they go. If that is not bad enough, they spew venom toward others every chance they get. It is almost as if they feel bad and want everyone else to share in their agony.
Those kinds of people exist in the world, but the church has more than its share of them too. It does not matter what church you go to; those joy killers are there. They want to steal your joy and nit-pick your activities. The mere fact they do this is bad. What makes it worse though, is the way they do it. There is no tact. There is no encouragement. There is no love. In fact, the direct opposite of all of those things just mentioned is what they confront you with.
They use Scripture to substantiate their claims: “preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction” (2 Tim. 4:2). Their problem is that they focus on “reprove, rebuke, exhort” and throw the rest of the verse out of the window. Yes, the Christian is to do those things, but they are to be done in an attitude of having “great patience and instruction.” This they fail to do. Looking to restore a brother or sister who has fallen out of grace, the Holy Bible gives specific instruction: “Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness” (Gal. 6:1). Kind, encouraging words are the theme here.
Rabbi Norman Lamm has some insightful words: “Great is the man who can accept criticism. Greater yet is he who welcomes it. But greatest of all is he who knows how to administer it in a spirit of love and sensitivity, without causing pain and chagrin.” Wise words to live by.
The fiery dragons of today are on the loose in your church. Beware! They want to spoil your joy and bring you to the emotional pits of sorrow and joylessness. Don’t listen to them!! Keep your focus on Jesus and be joyful!
