Church Hurts and the Healing Process

By Dot Kelley

People hurting people with their words and actions is a known reality in most of our Christian environments, and this kind of pain can affect the lives of Christians all over the world. Insults and ridicule have become commonplace in our society and in our churches, and many of us have begun to speak cr

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lettra Press LLC
• Release date: Aug 27, 2021
• ISBN: 9781953150950

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Church Hurts and the Healing Process

This book is written to provide information and motivation to readers. Its purpose is not to render any type of psychological, legal, or professional advice of any kind. The content is the sole opinion and expression of the author, and not necessarily that of the publisher.

Scripture taken from the New King James Version, copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Copyright © 2021 by Dot Kelley.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, transmitted, or distributed in any form by any means, including, but not limited to, recording, photocopying, or taking screenshots of parts of the book, without prior written permission from the author or the publisher. Brief quotations for noncommercial purposes, such as book reviews, permitted by Fair Use of the U.S. Copyright Law, are allowed without written permissions, as long as such quotations do not cause damage to the book’s commercial value. For permissions, write to the publisher, whose address is stated below.

Printed in the United States of America.

ISBN 978-1-953150-94-3 (Paperback)

ISBN 978-1-953150-95-0 (Digital)

Lettra Press books may be ordered through booksellers or by contacting:

Lettra Press LLC

30 N Gould St. Suite 4753

Sheridan, WY 82801

1 307-200-3414 | [e-mail]

www.lettrapress.com

Contents

Preface

Love Never Fails

Don’t Put Your Confidence in Man

Forgive and Fulfill your Destiny

Wisdom--The Principle Thing

Obedience is Better Than Sacrifice

Spiritual Growth and Stability

God is Our One and Only Source

There is Nothing That You Cannot Overcome

If you have been wounded in the church with insults or rejected by Christianity, do not give in to the temptation to become offended.

Church members and establishments can hurt even those within their own groups when people are unaware of how their words or actions can impact others. It is not something that Christians expect from their fellow believers, so it can come as a shock and must be dealt with by relying on the Spirit, not on the flesh, always turning back to the word of God for help and motivation. Author Kelley cites many different examples. For instance, revelations about one’s private life may unintentionally slander a church member, or a painful experience from another sphere, such as job loss, may be viewed unsympathetically by church members or administration. She advises readers to always put their trust in God and offer prayers for the ability to forgive and heal themselves and even to pray for those who have offended them. True wisdom, self-control, and willingness to repent are crucial factors in all relationships, remembering that God can turn every situation to the good.

Kelley has chosen to explore this unusual but significant subject matter for the benefit of all who may have encountered unchristian-like behaviors within their church environment. In her work with the Follow-up Care Ministry, she has heard many stories of the kinds of emotional pain that such people have experienced. Her approach is clear and well organized, with quotations from scripture to underscore the lively points she presents. She makes a particular case study regarding people who have lost a job because of unwillingness to comply with authority, emphasizing that both leaders and employees need to consider, as paramount, obedience to God’s law, which, she stresses, pays with riches that last beyond a lifetime. Kelley’s thoughtful approach to this important issue can provide an excellent focus for spiritual study, both within and outside churches.

- Barbara Bamberger Scott, The US Review of Books

Preface

Church Hurts and the Healing Process was written to bring awareness to unchristian-like behaviors that exist in our Christian environments.

Church Hurts and the Healing Process is a heartfelt encouraging guide that addresses conflicts in our Christian relationships. It encourages Christian believers to acquire a spirit of love and forgiveness for one another.

Thanks to Minister Larry Hall who was always there in my seasons of writing with prayer, encouragement, and giving me the extra push to finish the book.

A special thanks to Dr. Dennis Anderson who has mentored and guided me through some difficult times during my years of writing as I made efforts to follow God’s chosen path for my life.

Chapter 1

Love Never Fails

We are in a continual battle with the spiritual forces of evil and darkness, but we will triumph when we yield to walking in love. Love is the most powerful spiritual force in the