Whenever this spirit is operating within a church or congregation, you will also
find envy and jealousy. Those that are vying for the position of church Mother are
covetous of the attention and influence exuded by the one holding the office. They
create problems and stir controversy within a body of believers, many times
working behind the scenes to topple the current church Mother. If the pastor or
some other church leader gets wise to her undermining, and tries to put a stop to
it, that person becomes the target. Seduction, manipulation or rumors are lodged
against whoever is revealing the devilish tactics. The end result could be a pastor
involved in an adulterous relationship, or a church that splits over something as
silly and ridiculous as colors of church robes or what hymns are sung. Usually, the
one that was caused all the problems in the first place is seen as some sort of
victim, or a savior and becomes the Queen of the new church.
ìFor where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil
work.î James 3:16 (emphasis mine)
These usurpers are not that hard to spot within a congregation. Many churches
have a clique of women that handle most of the social activities. They are the ones
decked to the nines in the fanciest clothes. They have the most alluring hair-dos,
make-up and jewelry ñ a complete violation of scripture.
ìIn like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest
apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided
hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh
women professing godliness) with good works.î
1 Timothy 2:9-10
There is nothing wrong with wanting to look nice while attending church, but
when a woman shows up to worship the Lord looking like someone off the cover of
Vogue, then it needs to be addressed. This kind of attire can be a total distraction
for men that are attending the service, and can also engender envy and jealousy
from the other women that are not dressed as well.