Church Hurt
Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. Acts 6:1
Maybe you’re familiar with the term “church hurt.” Hopefully, it hasn’t happened to you personally, but chances are you’ve known someone who has experienced it. It’s painful, especially because it’s often so unnecessary.
Recently, I found myself in a situation where I feared I had unintentionally hurt someone I was serving with in my church. My sincere efforts were aimed in the opposite direction, but the outcome didn’t look like it. I was leading a team to launch a new ministry outreach for a hurting group in our community. As we worked together, various team members had differing expectations about how things should go. Despite my attempts to include everyone’s ideas, some were disappointed and lost interest. It broke my heart. These were people with a deep desire to help others, and somehow, my leadership had caused them to disconnect.
Thankfully, praying about it for quite a while, God brought restoration. Over time, the team came back together, and we were able to launch the ministry He had placed in our hearts.
In today’s reading, we see something similar. As the early church grew rapidly, the apostles couldn’t manage all the needs alone. Certain groups felt neglected, in this case, the Hellenists believed their widows were being overlooked. Instead of ignoring the issue or reacting defensively, the apostles listened. They acknowledged the concern and used wisdom to delegate responsibility, appointing Spirit-filled individuals to handle the practical needs of the church. The result was unity, growth, and peace. It was a supernatural solution to a very human problem.
This is what we can take away from this passage. Whether you’re the one who’s been hurt or the one who has (even unknowingly) caused the hurt, healing and resolution are always possible.
Here are a few steps to follow to help with the restoration:
- Start with humility. Recognize that misunderstandings are a natural part of working with people. Be quick to listen and slow to take offense.
- Seek God’s wisdom. Before reacting, ask the Holy Spirit for insight into the situation, especially if emotions are high.
- Communicate with grace. Speak directly but kindly with those involved. Honest conversations can heal deep wounds.
- Stay committed. If your idea isn’t chosen or your efforts go unnoticed, don’t quit. Ministry isn’t about personal validation, it’s about loving and serving others.
- Value the team. Different perspectives strengthen a ministry. Learn to blend ideas and celebrate what others bring to the table.
You can get started on this today by following the points below:
- Reflect on any recent ministry challenges. Is there someone you need to talk to, forgive, or apologize to?
- Pray specifically for unity among your team and ask God to reveal any blind spots you might have.
- Make a personal commitment to be a peacemaker, even when things get uncomfortable.
Today I want to encourage you to remember thatChurch hurt is real, but it doesn’t have to define your faith or your service. Like the early church, we can grow stronger when we respond with humility, wisdom, and grace. Don’t let offense rob you or someone else, of the blessing of ministry. Let God use even the painful moments to grow your character and deepen your calling. Remember, ministry is never about self, it’s always about pointing others to Jesus.
Today’s scripture reading: Acts 6:1-7
1 Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution.
2 Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.
3 Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business;
4 but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch,
6 whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.
7 Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.
Journal Prompt:
- Have I ever caused or experienced “church hurt”?
- How can I pursue healing and reconciliation in that situation?
- What might God want to teach me through this experience about humility, unity, and servant leadership?
The Daily Dose 