"... In my obsession against them, I even went to foreign cities to persecute them...“Then I asked, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ “‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,’ the Lord replied." - Acts 26:11, 15

When someone offends my wife, I am offended. In most cases, when family members are troubled the whole family is troubled. But, the most painful experience is for mothers and dads when their children are hurt. It is true that most parents would rather suffer instead of their sons and daughters. When children hurt... parents hurt.

The experience of Paul on the road to Damascus was revealing in many ways. The church is the bride of Christ and we are the children of God as well. The relationship is deep and sealed in his blood. We are the apple of his eye and those who trouble the church trouble the Lord. The Lord put it simply, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting" The Lord takes persecution and offenses personally because... When God's children hurt... he hurts.

When you go to worship this week, remember, the church is the family of God. The thought is wonderful in many ways, but it also puts us on the spot. Take care in how you speak about your brothers and sisters. Be cautious in you criticisms of the Assembly of God's people. Be kind to the bride and the groom will be pleased because... When God's children hurt... he hurts.