After seeking the council of one wiser than myself and devoting some time to prayer, I feel as though God has given me the grace to understand what did happen Wednesday. Confusion sometimes breeds anger, and the Lord doesn’t mean to confuse us in this. If I’m confused, it’s usually because I haven’t sought anything deeper than the surface. I needed someone to explain Wednesday night’s meeting to me, and someone did, and I think it makes more sense. I still have some hesitation and concerns, but I think I see a direction in all of this.

The Lord will receive more glory in repentance and restoration of a brother than in stern discipline. We always want a swift judgement when it is someone in opposition to us. However, the Lord is slow in His judgement. He always gives room for repentance. We should too. There will be a time when discipline may be necessary, and the Lord will reveal that clearly to us.

I have to keep reminding myself that ultimately the Lord is in control of all this. Am I convinced of that? I’m becoming convinced of that, yes.