We know from the story that David suffered greatly for the rest of his life due to his indiscretion. We know David suffered for his sin, but we also know others did as well. Why? Because we who have been in close relationship with pastors who have fallen have felt a residual brokenness in us as well. A brokenness that lingers and even haunts us years after our heroes have fallen.
So, how do we deal with the hurt and pain that fallen pastors and spiritual leaders have caused us?
First, realize that any man or woman of God can fall if they drift far enough. This is not just true of some; it is true of all.
Second, realize that what they believe and taught you about faith in Jesus is still true even if they stopped living it. The Bible tells us that the wages of sin is always death in some way. Remember that the devastation of their sin’s impact on you is proof that what they taught you is true.
Third, at some point, you have to forgive them. If you don’t forgive them for their sin and what it did to you, they will eventually become your excuse for falling back in your own faith.
Fourth, seek to restore them to the faith if possible. This won’t be easy.
And last, don’t stop looking for role models in the faith, even though some have disappointed you or let you down.
What they taught you and I about Jesus is still worth it.
Let’s ask Jesus to heal us from the hurt they caused us, so he can stop the cycle of hurt with us and use us to influence others for his glory and their good.
