Silent: making no sound; quiet; still: a silent motor. Refraining from speech.
"Be still and know that I am God"
-Psalm 46:10
I've found in my life that there are few disappointing things that equal being accused of something I didn't do or someone turning gossip into gospel when it concerns me. My initial reaction, like most human beings, is to react in kind and try to defend myself, and fight for my right to be right.
I've found that approach to be futile, useless and time consuming.
I've come to realize that responding is more powerful than reacting, and that a measured approach that is built upon the foundation of "firm but fair'" communication to be wisest path to travel.
Below are a few words of wisdom on this topic from one of the wisest men I've ever had the pleasure, and honor, to listen to; his name is Charles Stanley.
Charles Stanley - "79"
My hope is that his words will give you strength when you are wrongly accused and talked about, and that they will empower you in becoming the best you God has destined you to become. -sbb
Responding to Accusation
11 “And
when you are brought to trial in the synagogues and before rulers and
authorities, don’t worry about how to defend yourself or what to say, 12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what needs to be said.”
-Luke 12:11-12
When conflict occurs, the natural reaction is to blame someone else and defend yourself. But believers must respond differently. Once, I was publicly chastised for a wrong I had not committed. Thankfully, the Lord enabled me to remain calm rather than react angrily. Praying first is always the best response in a crisis. When we do, God supernaturally provides that which we can't muster up ourselves.
Spiritual discernment. The Lord, who perfectly understands the source of every problem, can give us insight beyond our limited perspective. Perhaps there's been a communication breakdown, a feeling of jealousy on the other person's part, or a mistake we unknowingly made. The Holy Spirit can show us how to approach our accuser and see beyond hurtful words or actions.
A quiet spirit. Our human nature wants to react quickly so that we can defend ourselves. That's why we must first deliberately focus our attention on the Lord and experience the inward peace He alone makes available to us (John 14:27).
Wisdom. Jesus told His disciples the Holy Spirit would give them wise words to say when they faced hostile authorities. He'll do the same for you. Ask Him to put a seal on your lips until He shows you what to say and when (Ps. 141:3).
We don't have to react to criticism with anger and self-protection the way the world does. Instead, we are called to represent Christ in every situation by depending on Him. In responding as He directs, we bring Him glory and cause unbelievers to want to know the source of our strength.
For more biblical teaching and resources from Dr. Charles Stanley, please visit www.intouch.org.
sbb 30.5.12
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