Division in the ranks has been in the news this week with the sacking of General McChrystal, for on a smaller scale are we not all often tempted to complain about those in charge. Whether it is in work or church or even in our social groups it is so easy to be critical and complain. I say this as I can be guilty of it yet I remember as a a manager how hard it was to deal with a corrosive negativity from those who will not come out in the open with their problems but spread their complaints behind the scenes. Like a dark sock in a white wash, such negativity is pervasive.

 

Ephesians tells us to encourage one another that we may build up rather than put down, and if things are wrong we need to have the courage to talk face to face to those in charge, for only then is there a chance to fix things. Whatever you think of the response to general McChrystal, I am challenged to think about my own behaviour.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Ephesians 4:29