Watch Out and Avoid Divisive People

Of late there have been some controversial, brow raising, anti-biblical statements made by several individuals in our places of employment, in the media, even in pulpits across America. What are we supposed to do with all of that? This week our devotional team tackles the topic, “Noting of Divisive People.” Saints, commit this scripture to memory, prepare to be encouraged, and be ye ready to give an answer to anyone who asks for a reason of hope that is in you with meekness and fear!

Believers must pray for wisdom and discernment to detect tares throughout the church,
Without judgment, the danger of division must be handled to avoid damage, harm, or hurt.

Avoiding others doesn’t mean shunning or being cold or cruel,
It’s deliberately keeping a distance from conflict while the evil offers are refused.

We cannot create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that we’ve been taught,
Once identified, move away in love, but the warnings must not be ignored.

There will be attempts and efforts to lure us into chaos and confusion,
Traps and bait will be created for others to question, suspect, and draw conclusions.

Potential witnesses of disorder will cause church members to choose sides,
Whether guilty or not, satan wants everyone to remain neutral, unsure, and questioning why.

The culprits of division are strategic, well-planned, and believed innocent,
Flattering and cunning with words while convincing others to join in wickedness.

Church members are often deceived by someone who presents themselves as an honest Christian,
They seek out our weaknesses, troubles, friends, and loved ones with a persuasive disposition.

In fact, they will even call out the bad in the church to deflect our thinking,
Dropping seeds of deception that slowly but surely cause our faith to start sinking.

Eventually, committed members of the church are discouraged from the body of Christ,
Division infiltrates the believers with distractions by diminishing the goal of righteousness.

This has to be dealt with or potential division will start to take root,
Feeding off interpersonal problems and disputes, if not trumped by biblical truth.

However, this is not a witch hunt or opportunity to comb the church for those who are not personal friends of us,
Discernment will determine those who are merely difficult from the wicked ones who are dangerous.

Remember the Lord is always with us, even when that disruptive person takes a seat,
He promised us in the scriptures that He will soon crush Satan under our feet.

Therefore, let us be obedient to what Paul says in Romans 16:17,
Watch out and avoid the divisive ones and trouble starters until they are exposed, clear, or redeemed.

Prayer: Lord! Give us discernment! Enable us to see and hear the signs and warnings of those who seek to divide the church. In the name of Your Son Jesus Christ!
Bro. Glenny Moore