Dragons Among Us

“A man of quick temper acts foolishly, and a man of evil devices is hated.” Proverbs 14:17

October 14-15, 2022

“To dwell there above with the saints that we love will be glory. But to dwell here below with the saints that we know is another story.” This is not an invitation to cynicism, but is rather a reminder that we can all be difficult to live with at one time or another. And some of us can be difficult too much of the time. Wisdom tells us to beware of well-intentioned dragons. Well Intentioned Dragons is a book by Marshall Shelley (1985) that offers guidance in ministering to problem people in the church. A short list includes the short-fused dragon. This person specializes in personal attacks, turning people into things and things into people. Carrying resentments everywhere one goes is the stuff of chronic fractured relationships. There is explosive anger and implosive anger. The one blows up in front of others. The other holds it inside and becomes bitter and grudge bearing. Watch out for the manipulative dragon who specializes in plays for power (“a man of evil devices is hated.”). Those who contrive secret vengeance against others with whom he is angry are on God’s most wanted list (Prov. 6:18). Shelly says, “A healthy congregation doesn’t allow one or two members to set the church’s direction or change its mission.” Well-intentioned, sin-infected people who profess Christ can inhabit church life. They may be Bible-knowledgeable and hold positions of responsibility. There is a biblical way to go about applying truth and love in all of our relational challenges. For starters we can make sure we are not dragons in sheep’s clothing. Read one of the Gospels and take notes on how Jesus, the One who came to do God’s will, conducted Himself. H

“Whenever there’s light, there’s bugs.” Harry Ironside.