Today's Daily Bread
A Sense Of Dread
In Tennyson’s classic poem “The Charge of the Light Brigade,”
valiant cavalry troops riding into battle are described by the imposing
phrase, “Into the valley of death rode the six hundred.” Those words
portray a sense of foreboding that anticipated the tragedy that lay
before them.
When I was a pastor, I sometimes felt a sense of dread when heading
to church meetings. Being aware of current or potential areas of
conflict can easily cause serious concern. But this does not need to be
the case in the church.
To a young pastor struggling with the pressures of ministry, Paul
wrote, “Avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate
strife” (2 Tim. 2:23). This applies to pastors as well as church
attenders. Our personal conduct can help to reduce the amount of
friction instead of elevating it through unwise actions or words. We can
model for others the biblical way to avoid, manage, and even resolve
conflict. Verses 24-25 encourage us to be gentle, patient, and humble in
relating to others.
As James says, “The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those
who make peace” (James 3:18). Pursuing the goal of being a peacemaker
can reduce the sense of dread that conflicts generate.
O Lord, help us to turn aside
From words that spring from selfish pride,
For You would have Your children one
In praise and love for Your dear Son. —D. De Haan
From words that spring from selfish pride,
For You would have Your children one
In praise and love for Your dear Son. —D. De Haan
Christians at war with each other
cannot be at peace with their heavenly Father.
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