How should believers respond to slander, as seen in Psalm 35:21? The Verse in Focus “They open their mouths wide against me; they say, ‘Aha, aha! Our eyes have seen!’ ” (Psalm 35:21) Why Slander Hurts • Slander twists truth into lies, aiming to damage reputation and fracture relationships. • It often appears when the slanderer feels threatened by righteousness (Psalm 35:19). • Words can wound as deeply as weapons (Proverbs 12:18). David’s Model Response in Psalm 35 • He entrusts his cause to the Lord: “Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me” (v. 1). • He asks for vindication, not revenge: “May those who seek my harm be put to shame” (v. 4). • He maintains integrity: “My clothing was sackcloth; I humbled myself with fasting” (v. 13). • He continues to praise: “I will give You thanks in the great assembly” (v. 18). New-Testament Echoes • Jesus: “Blessed are you when people insult you… Rejoice and be glad” (Matthew 5:11-12). • Paul: “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:17-21). • Peter: Christ “when He was maligned, He did not retaliate… but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:23). Principles for Today • Look to God first—He alone sees every motive and will judge righteously. • Resist retaliation—responding in kind only multiplies sin. • Keep truthful speech—answer slander with clear, gentle facts (Ephesians 4:25). • Cultivate a clean conscience—live so accusations have no foothold (1 Peter 3:16). • Pray for your accusers—intercession softens your heart and invites God’s work in theirs (Luke 6:28). Practical Steps 1. Pause and pray before speaking. 2. Search Scripture for promises of God’s defense (Psalm 20:1; Isaiah 54:17). 3. Seek wise counsel if reputation or ministry is at stake (Proverbs 15:22). 4. Continue doing good works; consistent godliness outlives false words (Titus 2:7-8). 5. Leave ultimate vindication to the Lord; His timing is perfect (Psalm 37:5-6). Promises to Remember • “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted” (Psalm 34:18). • “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you” (Isaiah 54:17). • “He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn” (Psalm 37:6). Closing Encouragement Slander may sting, but it cannot silence truth when believers anchor their confidence in the Lord, answer with grace, and keep walking in integrity. |
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