Welcome!

QUESTION 4:
If you are holding a grudge against another Christian, should you talk to them about it, or just wait - hoping it will go away?

ANSWER:
A Christian should never hold a grudge. "Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door." James 5:9. When we have been wronged, we ought to hold a forgiving attitude. Colossians 3. If this supposed "grudge" be an "offence," then Matthew 15:18 would apply. If you have been wronged, go to that person alone, and tell them. If this doesn't solve it, then bring two or three witnesses. If the offending one does not listen and repent, it is to be dealt with by the church. If that someone is holding a grudge against you and you are guilty, then go to that person and make it right with them. A believer should never take another believer to court. 1 Corinthians 6:1-8. The church should handle these problems, and not the law of our land. Grudges are very harmful to those who hold them. They are rooted in bitterness, they will warp your spirit, and defile you and others who you fellowship with. "Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness(grudges) springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled" Hebrew 12:15. Holding a grudge shows that your pride was hurt. This is another sin. If someone said something about you that is not true, you are not guilty. You don't need any defense, so don't even try to defend yourself. If it is true you have no defense, simply make it right.

Dear Reader, are you in right standing with God? Have you placed your trust in Christ?

All comments and questions to: Harold Smith

Return to Christian Living Questions Main Page

Updated July 2009, by Shelly Allen