copyright(c)2019 Daneille Gray Snowden
2019
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE FALSLY ACCUSED?
I recently posted this on my story on Facebook and Instagram:
This is one of those 'hard-truths' faced in the ministry. Actually, even in life itself.
How we handle this as leaders is the most significant next step we will take in this journey of serving others; as we are in service for our Lord.
We could REACT, and that is not always a bad thing, it's HOW WE REACT that we must ponder.
Truthfully, when things are said about us and even to us that is not true; as the deliverer of this 'so-called' information is convinced it is definitely true...this cuts deep into our own souls.
I have seen pastors being told many things when these 'accusers' definitely did not have the correct information.
Sometimes; the Holy Spirit will lead us to just keep our mouths shut. At least for a time.
Matthew 5:38-40 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also.
My husband and I have had to do this; even recently. Our hopes and prayers were that the individual would eventually see the truth, or would possibly allow the Lord to touch their hearts to see things in a godly/spiritual way.
Time and time again we kept quiet. Did it hurt? Oh yes...deeply.
This is where we need to be aware of hurts turning into spite and bitterness, remembering 'why' the Lord told us to "be quiet."
2 Chron. 20:17 "You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you,..."
Then, there are times the boldness of the Holy Spirit says; "Rise up and speak the truth (defending ourselves)!" Yet, seasoned with grace and much love. Ha! Is that ever a challenge to our human nature. But, He is faithful to equip us. Ya see; we are still dying to self and yet still standing up for who we are in Christ.
Ex. 4:15 "You are to speak to him and put the words in his mouth; and I, even I, will be with your mouth and his mouth, and I will teach you what you are to do."
Isn't it interesting to walk this 'walk' in life?
It is so different than what this world would advise us to do.
Remember: His ways are far different than our ways!
Although, our goal is to be like Jesus! "But He answered him not one word, so that
the governor marveled greatly." Matt. 27:14
He was accused; and stood silent.
I also think of Job, who as we read in the beginning of this book of wisdom, was known as the most righteous man on earth.
Still, his closest of friends; ASSUMED THEY KNEW his thoughts and secret sins ...thus they knew why he was suffering so much.
They were accusing of him by what they assumed. They truly believed what they thought. {Still, they were so wrong!}
I cannot even begin to imagine the deep cut into Job's heart by this; especially after all the suffering he was walking through.
You think times have changed, but they haven't.
Man is still man; pride is still pride and people will continue to say what they think without bridling their tongues.
So, as a leader...
First: know you are not alone.
Second; your God see's and hears what has been said and done to you. He has this as you keep it in His Hands.
Third; ask Him to lead your heart, then your lips as you speak at a timely fashion in a loving way. Realizing even though this has been spoken about you; it's not about you. It's about the enemy distorting God's work. For you are His vessel, doing His Work.
Fourthly; Do not allow the hurt to sit in your soul. Pray, worship, get counsel from a spirit led, wise advisor. Surrender it and keep focused on your Lord Jesus...press on!
God is using you, or the enemy wouldn't be trying to intimidate you.
Rise up my fellow warrior; and march on!
