When Eliab, David's oldest brother, heard him speaking with the men, he burned with anger at him and asked, "Why have you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the desert? I know how conceited you are and how wicked your heart is; you came down only to watch the battle." 1 Samuel 17:28 NIV
I wonder if David was thinking, “Wow, what did I do to deserve all that?” If you are not familiar with the story, David was sent by his father to the battle field to check on his brothers. David was the youngest son; apparently a very bright, energetic, bound-to-be successful kind of guy; enough so that it made his brothers uncomfortable. He was just being obedient to his father, but his brothers took offense.
I don’t think David did anything wrong. I think he needed to go to be obedient to his father. I don’t even have any advice if you find yourself in a similar situation. I just believe you should be aware of those times when just your presence alone could be offensive. I think that awareness can often keep us from offending people unknowingly.
I have had two very successful church planting experiences. I don’t share that to brag, but to use for illustration. I consistently get invited to meetings with other church planters. Sometimes I go, sometimes I don’t. One thing I have had opportunity to do several times is to “share our story” in these settings. As much as I love sharing what God has done I also realize that sometimes when I do so I make others feel uncomfortable and as if they are less than “successful” in their own stories. I try to avoid those situations.
I recognize that God has me at a certain time and a certain place. Success is not based on numbers. Success is based on obedience to the command of God. I don’t want someone who may have smaller numbers in a church plant to feel otherwise.
May we look for opportunities to NOT offend others!
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I may not see in front of me, But I can see for miles around when I look over my shoulder, and Lord, it`s clear. You`ve brought me here, So faithful every step of the way. What can I do but follow you, For You are the Way, the Truth, the Life, And You`ve promised never to leave me, My Savior, my friend, From beginning to end. 
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