I'm struggling to forgive my last pastor. The specific examples as to why I feel this way have no place on something so public as a blog, but it is safe to say that, in my understanding of Scripture, he has failed to shepherd the flock in his care and he has instead been harsh, demanding and has promoted his own political gain rather than the Word of God.
As I watch the brutal aftermath in my life, in my husband's life and in the lives of our friends from that church, I can't help but remember James 3:1 and the admonition to be careful because those who teach will be held to a higher standard.
It isn't my place to judge this pastor; God will take care of that in His time. Yet, I find myself deep in a battle in my soul when it comes to forgiving this man. The hurts he's left run deep. This mess has affected many lives, caused several to grow bitter towards the church in general and has been a difficult road for my husband and I as newlyweds (we lost the community that supported us through our courtship).
Pastors, be careful, be on your guard and keep James 3:1 on your mind as you lead your church. You can be a good shepherd, following the Good Shepherd, or you can be destructive and damaging. I don't believe that there is an option in the middle.
You can stand for the Truth without crushing people, but I don't believe you can crush people while also standing for the Truth.
