Ask and Listen (TT)

 One of the big things I pray about for my children, grown though they may be, is that they won't ever be falsely accused and/or framed, especially in matters of money.  Being accused when they are actually persons of integrity would be a devastating pill to swallow.

Accusations will have far-reaching effects on the accused and their loved ones.  It could take years and years to prove their innocence if, they ever get cleared.  Gossipers and judgemental people, as well as the accusers determined to keep the accused nose rubbed in the dust, will not let it go. So it is a serious matter to accuse someone of something without establishing the evidence and truth of a matter.

Deborah Smith Pegues in her book 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue cites what God asked Adam after Adam had sinned and hid.  God already knew the answers (see Genesis 3:9-11) but He was establishing and clarifying the situation so He

 "[asked and listened]" 

for Adam's answers.

"Asked and listened."  It is a good practice.  Ask and listen to the one accused, not just to the accusers' answers.

Pegues also mentions Job's three friend-accusers. Job knew he was innocent of the charges laid against him.  But his 'so-called' friends didn't listen to his answers.

I like Pegues' point and I'll try to keep it in mind for when I'm tempted to accuse someone of somehting.  Check the so-called 'information'.  We can be so quick to judge and accuse.  As brothers and sisters-in-Christ, let's show greater kindness and the love of Jesus to others. Ask the Lord for wisdom, insight and understanding of any given situation of accusation.  There may be no easy out but don't be the one to perpetrate nor perpetuate an accusation against another person!  I pray to God I'm never such an accuser nor the accused, nor any of my family members!

Father God, stop me when my intent is to accuse another person unjustly.  Remind me to 'ask' and 'listen' to anyone accused and not to perpetuate a situation without establishing the truth of the matter and even then to go about speaking with and/or about that person with caution and according to the biblical principle of two or three witnesses who are truth-witnesses.  If I have hurt anyone with false accusations, I'm sorry, Father.  I repent of it.  Help Thou my weak flesh to be repentant, forgiven and renewed.  Bring to mind so I can make amends to that person or persons.  

Give me wisdom, understanding and insight and good listening ears.  May I follow Jesus' way.  I ask in Jesus' name.  Amen.

                                                    ~ ERC  July 2025 ~

Based on Revelation 12:!) ES>  Also, 30 Days To Taming YOUR Tongue, Day 25 - The Accusing Tongue, by Deborah Smith Pegues.

Sing, The Jesus Way, along with Phil Wickham.