That’s really cool, Tyler. I look forward to seeing how God works in you now that you have released that anger/bitterness/hurt/whatever to Him. It was good to hang out a little bit last night. We didn’t see you at all today…

Tyler–your story is very similar to mine. The Leadership Summit for me has been bitter and sweet at the same time. I’ve had thte opportunity to encounter people there who have hurt me and each time it was more about the issue of whether I would forgive rather them ask for forgiveness. I can count on each hand the opportunities that this summit gave me for soul inspection and correction. I missed it this year because of some scheduling..but next year I hope to be there.

Thanks for sharing your story–maybe in time I can share mine too.

Tyler, about 12 years ago I was let go from a position as a worship leader because they decided a woman should not lead worship. They did this ON THE PHONE. I was stunned and humiliated and very confused afterwards. I tried to stay positive for my team, because they all threatened to leave the church, which would have devastated the church. (it was a small church plant) I stayed on as a team member,and never spoke of it, but it broke my heart and humiliated me and really just made me wonder if I was crazy and if God had any use for me. The church was lied to (they were told I was “taking a break”) and I had no one to help me process and cope. I just tried to remain faithful. I was never apologized to and I am almost positive I never will be.

Fast forward about 5 years. I had accepted a new position leading worship at another church plant (really wasn’t terribly excited at first – I was terrified). I had been invited to lead worship at our women’s retreat and to share my testimony. I was a bit nervous. At that time it was still very humiliating for me to even admit this happened, much less talk about it. I had tried to forgive and thought I had. I had prayed and prayed and prayed. Well right before I was to share (like an hour before), we went to dinner at the retreat center dining hall and guess who was there? The pastor who let me go. He greeted me with this very condescending line “Well, hey Jan, our little worship leader for women!”. (note that I was the worship pastor at my church and he knew it) As I faced him that day right before I was to give my testimony I realized my anger at him was preventing God from fulling using my own story/testimony. I realized in that moment that his opinion should have no more hold over me and I should really truly let it go. I was able to forgive in that moment.

I still don’t like it. But I am putting my anger aside, understanding man’s fears, and answering God’s calling on my life, being sure of my calling, and obeying God, etc.

God usually makes us face our own worst enemies or fears. It’s how He works. It’s how we grow.

I am so glad for you to have this work of God in your life. It will catapult you forward in your walk of faith.

Love love love this everyone. Thanks so much for your honesty with your stories. Means a lot to me.

Tyler,
I’m so encouraged by this it brings tears to my eyes. Having went through that time as a member of the former church I was left confused, disillusioned and so sad when everything happened–and I was just an observer, I can only imagine what you and your family went through. I’m so happy that you have come to that place of forgiveness. Praise God for his healing and restoration in you!
~Kelli

Wow Tyler, you are an amazing dude, you know that? To learn and experience this freedom now, instead of holding on to bitterness is a great thing and your willingness to create new memories in the face of how the old ones make you feel are an act of courage.

I started reading the older post but couldn’t finish, partly cuz it’s late and I should go to bed but after reading janowen’s story I just feel very sad and sickened at church politics; it brings up for me the conflict that ended my dad’s first pastorate. Thing is I was only 8 yrs old, I didn’t know the reason why we had to move at the time. I read about it when going through his letters after he passed away a few years ago.

Anyways, I almost gave up on something this week because of something that might fall under church politics. Church politics SUCK! That coulda been the title of your blog.

I just wanted to thank you for the smile you gave me with the video. I enjoy reading your opinions & experiences & have learned from many. Sometimes though it’s great to just have a laugh to clear the day away & your videos have done that for me! Thanks….