Then the Jewish leaders took Jesus from Caiaphas to the palace of the Roman governor. By now it was early morning, and to avoid ceremonial uncleanness, they did not enter the palace, because they wanted to be able to eat the Passover. So Pilate came out to them and asked, “What charges are you bringing against this man?” John 18:28, 29 NIV
People! Take note. We learn many things from the Bible, but here is a secret we don’t talk much about: When you are about to betray someone, for goodness’ sake, don’t do it in the church. Take it outside, do it on social media, or behind their backs. This is how you can do what you must and still eat at the Lord’s table.
Of course, this is tongue-in-cheek. But is it? Probably all of us, at some time, have publicly criticized someone, talked behind their back, or gossiped.
Maybe you’ve heard a prayer like this: Jesus, please help Mary with her alcohol problem. Please keep her away from Paul, who wants to have an affair with her, but she is doing the right thing, Lord, and avoiding him…for now. Please help her son who is on drugs and ran away from the treatment facility. Oh, and help her pregnant teen daughter to know she is in sin and to turn back to You. Mary lays herself bare before you, Lord. Please help her.
It wasn’t Mary who laid herself bare. This prayer may be in the name of Christian love, but it is gossip and it is hurtful—even harmful.
Or maybe you’ve heard this: I don’t want to gossip, but Shirley could really use prayer for….
Those are examples of hypocrisy and akin to taking the Lord’s name in vain by attaching Jesus’ name to gossip. When we do this, we are no better than the Pharisees who wanted to kill Jesus but wouldn’t go into the palace so they would stay ceremonially clean and could still enjoy the Passover meal.
It is painfully obvious the world doesn’t respect the Church and tries to tear it down as often as possible. Let’s not provide the ammunition to do it by acting like those who belong to this world.
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23, 24 NIV
When we are tempted to talk about someone behind their back, correct them publicly, or pray-gossip, let’s first ask God to search our hearts. There just might be a big ole log protruding from it.
Lord, this is not an easy thing to ask, but search me. Is there anything in me that is offensive to You? Show me so I may repent and do better. Help me to not be like the world but to become more like You. Holy Spirit, take hold of my tongue so I may not cause pain to others and bring shame to Your name.
This devotional by Stacy originally appeared in the October 15, 2024 edition of Arise Daily and is brought to you by the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA). Subscribe free at arisedaily.com.
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