My devotional reading this morning was quite challenging. It talked about responding to someone who accuses you. When a false accusation comes your way, the natural response is to lash out, come back with a real zinger, and put that person in his or her place. But is that Christian?

The writer says NO. Even though our flesh screams to retaliate and the culture encourages this, we can’t go there as Christ followers. We are to give the Holy Spirit space before we answer someone. That “space” gives God a moment to work in us and prevent us from reacting in a hasty way.

Answering with a harsh response is living as if God is not in us. The writer goes so far to say that it is like we are an atheist.

God is in us and wants to be a part of all of our moments. So when that harsh moment comes, press pause, allow God to work in you and transform your response. Don’t return accusation with accusation.

In order to respond in a Christlike manner, it helps to remember that when someone is negative and accusatory, this is not the voice of God. God assures us of His love, brings peace to our spirit and frees us from shame. So when accusatory words are spoken, try to remember that those words don’t represent God.

Every time we react to someone who accuses us unfairly, we represent God to others. And while we all fall short of perfect representation, we must be mindful of what it means to  follow Christ in all we do.

For more help, Breaking Free from Anger and Unforgiveness by Dr. Linda Mintle. Click on the book on the right.