Tuesday, 2/17/14
Most of us learned from an early age that if we do not have something nice to say about someone, we should say nothing at all. Unfortunately, not everyone lives by that rule. I think it is fair to say that all of us have been slandered at one time or another, and some of you who are reading these words may be feeling it’s sting even today. It is a distressing thing to know that someone somewhere is spreading lies and vicious rumors about us and it is equally difficult to figure out what do about it.
First of all, let me remind you that they even slandered Jesus. In fact, in His Sermon on the Mount, he addressed that issue with these words: God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too. (Matthew 5:11-12 NLT*) By these words, these two things are obvious: (1) We’re not the only ones having to endure slander. (2) And if we endure it, a great reward is awaiting us in Heaven. Though Jesus never defended Himself from these attacks, I sincerely believe He will defend His own. I also choose to believe that when we have been treated unfairly or have endured hard times, a big blessing is on the way. If that has not always been the case with me, I would not be so bold to make that declaration. So if they’ve done it or are doing it to you right now, let God handle it. He does a much better job of it anyway. Also, get ready for a big blessing. In fact, when it gets here let me know, so we can rejoice together.
On the other side of the issue, if you have been put in the unfortunate position of hearing a person you know being slandered, do him or her a favor. Don’t believe it. In fact, we should never believe a one sided story, no matter who it is that gave us that juicy bit of information. Let others play that malicious game if they must. God’s people are better than that.
Memory verse for the week: I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7)
* NLT = New Living Translation
