I have always struggled with self condemnation and guilt. Even when I know in my heart that I have done nothing wrong, I will make the problem my fault. I can't stand it when someone has something against me. You may think that is a good thing, because I did to. But I am seeing that it can be a terrible thing. Scripture clearly says that we should do our part to live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:8). Also, not to offer sacrifices to God if your brother has something against you, but to go make things right with him first and then come offer your sacrifices to God (Matthew 5:23-24). I believe it is imperative to examine our hearts and relationships. Making sure there is no bitterness or hatred but only love. When we do make mistakes and hurt others, we should be quick to hold ourselves accountable to the ones we hurt and also to the Father. Likewise, when others hurt us we should be quick to forgive those who wrong us.
In this circumstance I have soberly examined the situation and my heart and I know that I handled it the wisest way that I could but still that other person is angry with me. Angry to the point of hating me, slandering my name and accusing me of all sorts of things that I know I am not guilty of. I know that everything that I have done has been out of love and a desire to help. I have peace in that. However, this past week I have felt this broad and confusing feeling of guilt. As I sit at the feet of Jesus and place these feelings before him, He clearly reminds me of who it is that is accusing me. He isn't named the "Accuser" for nothing. Jesus also reminds me that I stand guilt free in the shadow of His cross. I am by NO means perfect. I am reminded daily of this wretched flesh that I carry around with me. But I know that in this specific situation that I have spoken truth. That I have loved. That I have been prayerful about my decisions. In these things I rest. Christ Jesus said "Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets." The Accuser has been trying to steal my joy. Does this situation hurt my heart? Yes. Does it destroy me? Never. Satan has tried for years to destroy me through the acts of others. But what he needs to realize is those beautiful nail scared hands hold this woman's heart and there is NOTHING that can snatch me out of them (John 10:28)! Covered by the blood of Jesus I stand innocent and free!
Revelation 12:10-11
'And I heard a loud voice in heaven saying, " Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death."'
I needed this this morning. I constantly struggle with the need to defend when others talk about things as though they have knowledge of it. Not necessary. But oh, is it hard! Thank you Melissa!
ReplyDeleteYou are so right! It is very difficult! But His grace is sufficient! Press on :)
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