The spiritual christian will readily admit there is much wrong in his discipleship, and that he comes miserably short in his service to God and his brothers and sisters in the church. Being aware of these unsavory facts should serve to make us reluctant to severely criticize those who are walking with us in the troubled path of faith. The least scrutiny of our brothers and sisters will reveal much which we consider to run counter to the honor of God, and the best interest of the church. On the other hand, the scrutiny being honest, we will discover much in our dear brothers and sisters that is honest, and worthy of compliment. We are not saying, withhold all criticism. No, loving and constructive criticism can be the means of enriching love, correcting error, and contribute to the welfare of the church. Destructive criticism of a brother or sister is grievously wrong, and severe criticism must come only after the effect has been wisely and prayerfully calculated. The flesh takes a certain satisfaction from "Telling him off", but it often follows that we look back on our time of temper venting, and conclude, I wish I hadn't said that; or, I could have handled that in a far better way. More good has been accomplished by a pat on the back, than by a finger in the face. We may not relish humble pie, but the inner man thrives on it, and to deny our self this spiritual delicacy is to lower the flammability point of the depraved, harsh and unkind passions. The devil hates church harmony, peace, and unity. He loves to see discord among the brethren, gossip, and negative attitudes. Yet, the devil cannot create in the church these ill conditions apart from help within the church. Christ said, "it is impossible but that offenses will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come" (Luke 17:1). The devil is the arch rival of God, infinitely hates the blood bought church of Jesus Christ, and is determined to undo every member of the church. So, it behooves the members to promote one another, to pray fervently for one another, and to pay respect to one another. A kind word of appreciation can go a long way in disarming the spirit that is caught in the gall of bitterness. After all, it is the meek who inherit the earth, and our Lord said, "I am meek and lowly in heart."
    Let us give the church our best, and God will give the best to us.