Hit by Friendly Fire: What to Do When You Are Hurt by Another Believer
A sermon by Dr. Michael A. Milton based on Genesis 50:15-21 and Philippians 3:10-11.
For the "walking wounded" in Christ's body who seek healing and restoration.
MM
by Michael Milton
The Reality of Wounds from Within
Betrayal Experience
Many believers experience deep hurt from fellow Christians. The pain often cuts deeper than wounds from outside.
Widespread Issue
This problem affects laity, leaders, and pastors alike. No one is immune to friendly fire.
Biblical Patterns
Joseph was betrayed by his brothers. Paul faced opposition from fellow believers. Your pain has precedent.
Understanding the Pain: Not Just a Mistake
Intentional Wounds
Some hurts aren't accidents. They come from deliberate words or actions by those we trusted.
Lasting Impact
These wounds can leave lifelong scars. The pain often resurfaces unexpectedly, years later.
Bitter Roots
Left unaddressed, hurt turns to bitterness. This poisons your spiritual life and relationships with others.
Step One: Take Up Your Cross
Resurrection Power
Experience divine strength through suffering
Christ-like Humility
Choose obedience even when wronged
Share in His Sufferings
Embrace Philippians 3:10-11 as your path
Taking up your cross means viewing pain as a pathway to spiritual growth rather than just senseless suffering.
Step Two: Forgive as You Have Been Forgiven
Recognize the Model
Joseph forgave brothers who sold him into slavery. He refused to hold their sin against them.
Release the Debt
Forgiveness doesn't minimize sin. It means surrendering your right to retaliation or resentment.
Reflect Christ's Mercy
Your forgiveness mirrors the mercy Christ showed you. It becomes your testimony.
Step Three: Trust God's Sovereignty
Evil Intent
Others may have meant harm. Their actions were wrong.
Divine Purpose
God's plan transcends human evil. He works through painful circumstances.
Greater Good
Like Joseph, trust that God means it for good. Surrender to His redemptive work.
Personal Growth
Your wound becomes a channel for grace. Pain transforms into purpose.
Don't Give Up on the Church
Temptation to Leave
Pain often makes believers want to disengage from community.
Christ's Body
Despite its flaws, the church remains God's chosen vessel.
Community Healing
Restoration happens best within loving fellowship, not isolation.
Faithful Commitment
Choose to stay engaged. Your wounds can become ministry.
From Victim to Victor
Take Up Your Cross
Share in Christ's sufferings as a path to spiritual growth and resurrection power.
Forgive Deeply
Release others from the debt of your pain, following Joseph's example of grace.
Trust God's Plan
Believe that God redeems even friendly fire for His glory and your good.
There is hope and healing in Christ. Your story doesn't end with woundedness—it continues with victorious faith.
Galatians 2:20 (ESV)
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.