Church Hurt is Real
I HATED CHURCH!
I know that is an intense, strong and loaded sentence BUT it is also VERY true!
Being church hurt IS A REAL thing.
It's when you've been hurt, betrayed, or let down by a church, its leadership, or its members. It's a pain that can cut deep, and it often leaves people feeling lost, confused, and alone. But despite the hurt, it's important not to give up on finding a church that's right for you.
Many people who have been church hurt feel like they can't trust any church or any group of believers again. They feel like they're better off on their own, and they distance themselves from the church altogether. But this mindset can be dangerous because it can lead to isolation, bitterness, and a lack of spiritual growth. I’ve been there and gone down this path myself. This is by no means to bash another church nor speak poorly of a church but to simply encourage you to continue your search for a church until you find:
1. A loving church where you feel welcomed
2. Is teaching from the Bible.
3. Double check their theology / mission statement
4. Ask questions! The church you are looking to be involved with or attending will be okay with questions.
It's important to remember that not all churches are created equal, and not all Christians are the same but we are still humans filling the inside of the church walls (it’s easy to forget this sometimes). Just because you've had a bad experience with one church doesn't mean that every church will be the same. There are good, loving, and welcoming churches out there, and it's worth taking the time to find one that's right for you.
If you've been church hurt, it's okay to take a break from church for a bit. Take the time to heal, to process your emotions, seek counseling support if needed in order to work through what you’ve experienced and pray for guidance as to what you're looking for in a church. But don't let the hurt keep you from finding a community of believers that can support and encourage you on your spiritual journey with God. I walked away from church for MORE THAN 10 YEARS because of this.
I’m thankful the Lord placed challenges in my life which drew me back in - to “searching” for a church but man was it a long, rough road. I’m blessed to say, I’ve now found a church that I genuinely LOVE so much and not only attend regularly but am also involved in several ministries! Who would have ever thunk it! NOT ME! That’s for sure! haha
In conclusion, being church hurt is a real thing, but it's important not to give up on finding a church that's right for you. There are good churches and good Christians out there, and it's worth taking the time to find them. Don't let the hurt of the past keep you from experiencing the love, grace, and fellowship that the church can offer.
I NOW LOVE MY CHURCH!
From my heart, with love, Katie-lyn Smith Puyo