In friendships, when people become close, we find out that we all have faults. No one is perfect (except Jesus). The more intimate the relationship, the more the faults become obvious. As I'm sure we have all witnessed many times in church, members notice faults in the church leaders.

Or perhaps they become offended at the minister and begin to voice their opinions to others. Soon after, a critical spirit begins to spread, which in many cases, divides a church.

In some instances, a church leader may have areas in his or her life that need to be changed, but let the Lord be judge over that. Your job is to intercede on his/her behalf.

You just keep your heart protected, put a zipper on your mouth and go before the Lord. He'll take care of it. Don't touch God's anointed. The person sitting next to you in church is God's anointed - no matter what you think about them.

You cannot even criticize your own mate because when you do, you are touching God's anointed. If you sow strife, you will reap strife. Usually, we are unaware that the offense has entered into our heart and then the root of bitterness is barely noticed as it develops.

...Lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.
(Heb. 12:15)

In other words, we are to have a constant watch, and guard over our mouths. We must examine our heart and open ourselves to the Lord for only His Word can determine the thought and intentions of our heart.

Source: Conquering The Spirit Of Offense by Carolyn Savelle
Excerpt permission granted by Jerry Savelle Publications