Sermonettes 61
Dealing with Irregular People
I am almost certain that each one of us knows someone who is 'irregular' towards us, either within our direct family circle, social circle, place of employment, or even in the local assembly. Since we encounter 'irregular' people regularly, we must have a way of dealing with them that does not destroy our personal shalom in Yah'shua (Jesus), particularly if the signs are present that these 'irregular' persons may never repent or change. So how should one deal with an 'irregular' person?
Firstly, examine yourself, because on every criticism, even if it is unjust, there may be a measure of truth. Psalm 144:12 says the daughters of Yahweh are polished cornerstones. When the 'irregular' person rubs you, say: "Father, You must want me to be beautiful."
Secondly, if the criticism is too unjust and has no validity, say: "I do not receive that." Do not allow it to get into your spirit and make you feel condemned because condemnation and guilt are from Satan.
Thirdly, if the 'irregular' person is on our sphere of responsibility and comes under our right to discipline, then by all means we must correct, in love. For example, when dealing with with an 'irregular' child, be fair, friendly and firm.
Every family has at least one member in their immediate or extended circle who causes everyone to "with a tightrope". Two or three intercessors can agree together and set them free.
If you are a married woman, do not respond to the offences directed toward your husband because Yahweh gives your husband grace to overlook a derogatory remark made against him, so you can do the same, unless it that person comes comes under your sphere of responsibility (e.g. your children, or those sisters under your watchcare as a Deaconess or Eldress). You cannot receive grace from Yahweh if you become offended by the hostile remark. This is particularly important when such criticisms come from other men whom you hold in honour who are criticising your husband.
Joyce Strader comments:
"I was hosting a ladies' luncheon when a prophetic message came: 'I (Yah'shua) am choosing My men to rule with Me during the millennium. I am putting these men through all kinds of tests. Not all these men will pass. Not all will reign with Me...'. What a strange message for a ladies' meeting, I thought. But the last line let me know it was for me that the Spirit was speaking: 'Nevertheless, I love them all.' In other words, 'Keep your hands off these men. These irregular people are Mine to discipline, not yours.'" [2]
If there is an 'irregular' person who enters your sphere, but you have no authority to discipline, don't take responsibility! If a baby cries in a meeting, report it to an ussher. Let him deal with it. If someone is teaching wrong doctrine, report it to your husband who can then inform the minister or those in responsibility. Let them handle it.
Don't take on a project which isn't yours to correct.
Acknowledgements
[1] Joyce Landorf, Irregular People
[2] Joyce Strader, How to Handle Irregular People (Ministries Today, March-April 1989), p.36
This page was created on 26 August 2009
Last updated on 26 August 2009
Copyright © 2009 NCCG
