Christians Need Jesus Too
“Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose” (Philippians 2:1-2).
I know it can be difficult at times to experience rejection, abandonment, or abuse from another believer, but the truth is that hurt people can hurt others. You probably encountered someone who needed just as much help as you needed. It does not excuse poor behavior; however, this reality can help us heal.
Many Christians are in need of deep inner healing, so we cannot expect perfection. However, we can put protective measures in place to safeguard our hearts.
Proverbs 4:23 instructs us to guard our hearts above all else, because it determines the course of our lives. This shows us how important it is to cover ourselves. I didn’t fully understand what it meant to guard my heart until I reached my limit on warfare that could have been avoided.
There was a time when I believed that if someone offended me, they had to take part in my healing. I didn’t realize that by operating like this, I was keeping myself exposed to perpetual offense. Instead of setting proper boundaries, I tried to include them in my journey to recovery. After multiple failed attempts to move forward this way, I realized that it wasn't about them. It was about me and my relationship with God.
So, how do we move on?
Give It to Jesus
When we understand our position as sons of God (1 John 3:1), it is easier to let God have His way. If you have suffered abuse, please know that you do not have to take matters into your own hands.
“Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord” (Romans 12:19).
“For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps. He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone. He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly” (1 Peter 2:21-23).
Humans are subject to falling short of our expectations. That is why it is better to put our trust in the Lord (Psalm 118:8).
Many of us are still working on accepting this, but as I learn and grow, I want you to do the same. Feel the grief, the hurt, and the pain, but give it all to Jesus. I am confident in the restorative power of our God (Psalm 23:3a; 147:3).
Pray for Each Other
One final thing—God does not reveal to us the weakness of our brothers and sisters so that we can criticize them. He shows them to us so that we can pray (Luke 6:28). When you realize that you’ve encountered another broken believer, pray that they too can one day receive the healing they need.
