Slander Vice

 

Slander – defined in my words, is to tear someone down through speech.  It takes our expression of anger, rage and malice towards another person and is conveyed through words.  Slander is typically done behind a person’s back, although I am certain there are instances where slander has been shared in front of the person one dislikes.  Slander is so terribly damaging in any form.

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”   I am 100% certain that there is not a person reading this post that has never been hurt by words.  Words do hurt, whether you are a child or an adult.  I have shared unkind words and have felt horrible about it – apologizing and asking for forgiveness.  Slander is different.  There is strong intent to hurt the person with words.  It may be directly towards the person, or even worse, behind their back.  Gossiping, speaking falsely about another, and damaging their integrity are all examples of slander.

Slandering is hard not to take personally.  It is specifically meant to hurt.  My friends, if we are on the receiving end of slander, it hurts.  Not acknowledging the hurt only fuels the hurt further.  What can we do?

·         Take time to sit in reflection when slander is sent your way.  The words may not contain any truth, but it is worth examining all the same. 

o    “Search me, God, and know my heart…” Psalm 139:23-24

·         Go to God in prayer.  Ask for His strength and guidance in responding.

o    “For people have opened their wicked and deceitful mouths against me .  . but I am a man of prayer.“ Psalm 109:1-4

·         Remember, do not respond with evil words or deeds.

o    “Do not repay anyone evil for evil…Do not take revenge…’It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”  Romans 12:17-19

Now, the true reflective moment when WE are the ones to slander others.  As certain as I was that we were on the receiving end of slander, I am also certain that we have slandered others.  Friends, our job is to share good thoughts with everyone – yes, even those who we may be frustrated with.  Ours is not to judge.  Ours is not to speak ill.  Ours is to build up.  “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."  Ephesians 4:29

As we focus on slander, may we take time to go to God in prayer when we are so angry that all we want to share are unkind words.  Ask God for words that will build up, not tear down, the person.  Ask for God’s help in holding back our judgment and letting God do that for us!  Have Simple Faith that He will provide.

Video that complements this post:  Slander Vice

Dearest Lord, be with me during slanderous moments.  If I am on the receiving end, please stop me from responding with words that will hurt and take the situation to you.  If I am the one who wants to slander another, stop me!  Help me to find words that will build the person up, not tear them down.  Amen!