Who are you defending?

​​     The majority of churches have been so guilty of thinking they have to "DEFEND" God's Word.  They defend versions, they defend who comes in, who serves.   They have taught me this well, One of the ways was by the "Fear Of Loss," technique. I don't think it starts off to be hurtful, maybe it was to keep what was sacred to them from being taken away.  I too, have been guilty of this before, though I am ashamed to say it, I feel that it is important to tell you.  I believe that, along with feeling the need to defend God's Word,  then comes judging.  Like, because I'm on the "God's Word" side(or the good side), that gives me the "okay" to do that because I'm just sticking up for God. Not true, I have just put myself above others.  (Remember, Saul persecuted first Christians).
      I finally heard God say(not in an audible voice but that would be welcomed) "Michelle, do you really think that I need you to DEFEND My Word?  Read Mark 13:31 Gurl, people have tried to get rid of My Word by burning it, stopping their ears, killing those who proclaim it...I just want you to do this ONE thing.  Love Me and I'll love others through you.  It will be perfect, trust Me." 
     "Defend and judge" go together just as "love and serve" go together.  One pair is God's job and the other pair is ours.  I feel relieved, I don't have that work load anymore.  Now I have more positive things to say with my dummy Willie.
Photo Credits  http://www.pensitoreview.com/Wordpress/wp-content/themes/mimbo2.2/images/art-biprble-buprning.jpg

---