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As we learned yesterday, the body of Christ is responsible to behave in a certain way whenever another member is hurting or has a need. But this is only half of the equation because in order for the body to give the proper attention, there must also be a willingness to receive it.

Some people who have a need just won't welcome ministry when it is extended to them. I've seen this happen in a variety of forms. Certain members in the body aren't willing to receive because of a misunderstanding that has taken place in the past: "Oh, there's so and so. Yeah, I remember the look that he shot me last year!" Others won't receive because they fear the unknown of what might happen if they're transparent and vulnerable. For some, the problem is pride as they assume that their needs go way beyond the body's abilities. Then there are those who have been burned in the past by the body's failure , and they've basically given up on allowing others to come close enough to address and affect an area in their lives that needs help.

The church is not a perfect place. There are bound to be misunderstandings, fears, prideful attitudes, and even failed attempts at ministry. But Jesus taught that our imperfections can't stop us from forgiving and then giving others another chance:

He said to the disciples, "It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! . . . Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns to you, saying, 'I repent,' you shall forgive him." (Luke 17:1, 3-4 NKJV)

If you need ministry, don't let a misunderstanding, fear, pride, or a past failure keep you from being vulnerable and transparent enough to receive the help that God has provided for you via His body.

DIG - Why is it important to receive the help you need? Who were some great receivers in the Bible?

DISCOVER - When have you resisted ministry, and what were your reasons?

DISPLAY - How can you become a better receiver? Be as specific as possible.