Rebuking in Ministry 2

It hurts, it really does.

But I think it is a lesson from God.

All I did was set out my reasons why I have to make a certain decision, and outlined the supposed roles and responsibilities of the other person.

The person replied with a personal attack on me, which was copied to all relevant people, questioning my character and integrity.

I am upset, still am upset. I had several people examine my original message and all of them, all from different backgrounds, thought that the original message was impartial and objective. They all agreed that the response was the problem, as that person over-reacted and missed out on the main gist of my argument.

I need to learn. I have to learn.

My first reaction was to respond back to the person. I could mount a convincing argument against that person's senseless response. But that person is too emotional and irrational. I think the wise thing is not to respond anymore to that person. Maybe I have already learnt my first lesson in trying not to defend myself and keep quiet for the sake of peace.

But I still have to deal with that person. This is the point I am at now.

I need to pray and ask God to give me wisdom to how to deal with the person. I think this is a valuable lesson for me to learn from if I am to grow and move ahead in my ministry. I may choose to ignore the person, and use a comfortable approach to deal with it in an administrative way. But I don't think this is what God wants me to learn. I may have to deal with this in a way which I have not done previously. May I be able to rely on Him and do things in a way which pleases him.