Eaten by Pieces

    Ms. Peacock.  In the ballroom.  With the lead pipe. 

    My conclusions, of course, are either right or wrong.  The rules tell us if our declaration is correct, we win.  However, when we make a false accusation, we are out of the game and our chance to win is immediately forfeited. 

    Sometimes we are guilty of accusing others falsely, but perhaps more often than not we are the ones falsely accused.  Ever been on the receiving end of slander?  Gossip?  Put- downs?  Untruths?  Ever had your character attacked or raked through the grapevine?   

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    Let me tell you something so curious about the word "accused."   In Hebrew this word means to eat, to devour, to eat their pieces (or to slander).  If you've been on the receiving end of false accusations, the sensation is like being consumed, piece by piece.

    It is excruciatingly painful because the accusations aren't a once-and-done, but rather a perpetual pecking away at our souls.  Back-biting is progressive, and to be the one bitten, hurts.

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    How do we stand against such attack?  Well, do you know what Jesus did when he was accused by the Chief Priests and the elders?  He said nothing (Mat. 27:12).  Paul, on the other hand, often verbally defended himself in part to bear testimony on his own behalf and persuasively to proclaim God's truth. 

    In whatever circumstance, we would do well to note that our battles are not against flesh and blood.   We think other people are the problem and we eagerly place them in the center of our vision as we dispairingly cry "Unfair!  Unfair!" 

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    The bottom line is that whether it is other folks who falsely accuse you or the Enemy of your soul who is relentless in his attack, be determined to stand on the truth of God's Word and what He says about you.  The enemy wants to destroy your identity, your essence in Christ.  Don't let him!   When you cling to the Truth, the devil must shut his mouth and retreat.  He forfeits the game.

    Are we beyond rebuke?  Of course not!  Pray through any criticism that comes your way!  Keep your heart humble and open for refinement.   But stand firm  and guard mightily against untruths.  God will equip you by His Spirit to take thoughts captive that are contrary to His Word and Truth. 

    Ask Him daily to fill you with His Spirit and to equip you with the courage to stand and the strength to lift His shield and sword.  With His help, you can do it, friend!

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We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing
raised up against the knowledge of God,
and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ...
2 Corinthians 10:5