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 A
few years ago, I listened while some preachers recounted their
experiences with the brethren. Some had been cheated; some lied
about. One had been run out of town. Others had been sadly
abused in many ways. They told some pitiful stories.
Of
course, a board has two sides, and one might become suspicious
of a preacher who always (or never) has trouble with the
brethren. The brethren might have an interesting story to tell
also. In fact, there are one or two contrary preachers even I
have trouble getting along with — as good natured as I am!
Unbiased
history testifies that many good men have been mistreated. From
the righteous prophets of old to the heroes of recent times, all
have borne the scars of truth’s battles. No surprise; soldiers
expect to be wounded. It is the wounds on their back —-
inflicted by critical and worldly brethren — that hurt. They
pierce to the heart.
I
began to brood over my own experiences. The more I thought, the
more determined I was to “get even” with the brethren for
the way they treated me. I laid my plans, and I could hardly
wait! There were some with whom I had a special score to settle.
I watched every occasion. Now and then I would think my day had
come and I would “get even”. No such luck! Foiled again! I
never knew brethren could be so elusive.
The
years have taught me patience. Few occasions have come to “get
even” but I can wait. I surely will not forget. I must admit,
however, it gets discouraging — waiting so
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long. But one of these days my chance
will come; I will be ready and waiting.
I
will treat them as they have treated me. I will even every
score. Boy, will I enjoy it! Then I will “lift up the hands
which hang down” (Heb. 12:12) and speak words of comfort and
encouragement as they have done for me. I will provide for them
as they have so long and so generously supported me. I will
freely sacrifice of my time and energy for them as they have for
me. I will be as helpful as they have been to me. Yes, I will
even the score. Who says my revenge will not be sweet?
But
I begin to wonder — yes, even doubt. Can I ever “get even”?
There are so many people and deeds on the ledger — and the
list is growing all the time.
Until
my day comes, I will, as I have opportunity, do good to all men
and especially to the household of faith (Gal. 6:10). I shall
pray “Above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in good
health, even as thy soul prospereth.” (3 Jn. 2).
I
will watch my opportunities to “get even”, but if my chance
doesn’t come, my Lord will even the score for me. “For God
is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which
ye have showed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to
the saints, and do minister.” (Heb. 6:10). He will see that
you get what is coming to you. For this assurance I am thankful.
Joe Fitch.
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