Purpose Driven Life chapter 21

Chapter 21: Protecting your Church

Something to remember: It is your job to protect the unity of your church. Its a big job but i believe i can do it!

Verse to remember: "Most of all, let love guide your life, for then the whole church will stay together in perfect harmony" Colossians 3:14

The statement(s) that was the most impactful: In the church focus no what we have in common not what we dont have in common. We all love God, we all love to worship him. It doesnt matter if we are different from each other, what is most important is what we have in common.

Be realistic in your expectations. Rick quotes that we must passionatly love the church in spite of its imperfections.

Choose to encourage not criticize. Thats pretty clear to me. Encourage people not criticize what they are doing wrong.

Refuse to listen to gossip. Theres that word again!!!!! I like this definition " Gossip is passing on information when you are neither part of the problem nor part of the solution." Gossip splits the church and it needs to be stopped and its going to start with me!

Practice God's method for conflict resolution. Refer to Chapter 20 on restoring relationships. Support your pastor and leaders. That is so important. Build your leaders up not bring them down! Rick quotse that "we protect the fellowship when we honor those who serve us by leading." And how fitting, this month is pastor appreciation month!!! Thank your pastors for doing what they do!

Karyn Baker- Thank you for directing us toward God! Thank you for being you!! NEVER change! I love you!

Dave and Lisa Macpherson- You guys are awesome pastor team! I love you guys! I love working where i work so thank you Lisa for phoning my mom and asking if she knew of anyone who wanted a casual job. i love my job! Dave- you are so funny :)

Blessings...