This is a painful situation, especially when it involves people you once prayed with, worshiped with, and considered close friends. The Bible speaks often about pride and the attitude that leaders should have.
Jesus taught that leadership in God's kingdom is not about being above others but about serving them.
Mark 10:42-45 – "Whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister... For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister."
If someone's position in the church has caused them to become proud or to look down on others, that is not the example Christ gave
Examine your own heart first.Before speaking to them, pray and ask God to help you respond with humility instead of anger.
Psalm 139:23-24 – "Search me, O God, and know my heart..."
This doesn't mean you are at fault, but it keeps your spirit right before God
Don't assume their motives.Sometimes people become busy, overwhelmed, or unaware of how they come across. Pride is possible, but it is wise to focus on what you have observed rather than what you believe they are thinking.
Instead of saying:"You think you're better than everyone.""I've noticed our fellowship has changed, and I miss the closeness we once had. At times I've felt overlooked. Can we talk about it?"
Speak the truth in love.
Ephesians 4:15 – "Speaking the truth in love
Remember that position does not make someone greater.
God looks at the heart, not titles.
James 4:6
"God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble."
A pastor, elder, deacon, minister, or ministry leader is still called to walk humbly before God
- A title does not make us greater.
Leadership is a call to serve, not to be served.Pride destroys fellowship.Humility restores relationships.Jesus is our example of true leadership
Ask yourself and your congregation:Has my position changed my attitude?Do I treat people differently because of their status?Would people describe me as approachable or prideful?Am I serving people, or expecting people to serve me?If my title were taken away, would my character remain the same?Remember that every believer stands on equal ground at the foot of the cross. Different people have different responsibilities in the church, but no one is more valuable in God's sight because of a title or position.
If a friend has become distant or prideful after receiving a leadership position, pray for them, approach them with grace if appropriate, and continue walking humbly with Christ. Your faithfulness to God should not depend on how others treat you, but on your desire to honor Him in all you do.when you start by picking and choosing friends that are serving the same father and Son than you forgot what Jesus Did for you because the sins of the world was on his shoulder Peace Praying "Soulenique' music for the soul and Spirit