In what ways can we bless those who "falsely say all kinds of evil"? Setting the Scene • Matthew 5:11 sets the context: “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.” • Jesus immediately calls His followers to a radically different response—one of blessing, not retaliation (cf. Luke 6:27-28). What “Blessing” Really Means • Speaking good words: choosing words that build up rather than tear down (Ephesians 4:29). • Praying for God’s best in their lives (Luke 6:28). • Tangibly seeking their welfare, even at cost to ourselves (Romans 12:20). Scripture’s Blueprint for Blessing Those Who Slander • Luke 6:28—“bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” • Romans 12:14—“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” • 1 Peter 3:9—“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.” Living Examples to Imitate • Jesus: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). • Stephen: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60). • Joseph: feeding the very brothers who sold him (Genesis 50:21). Practical Ways to Bless Today 1. Pray by name for the person spreading falsehoods—ask the Lord to draw them to truth and salvation. 2. Speak courteously when you meet; avoid negative talk about them with others (James 3:9-10). 3. Look for specific needs you can meet—an encouraging note, a helping hand, a thoughtful gift (Proverbs 25:21-22). 4. Deflect gossip: if someone repeats the slander, respond with calm clarity and then add something commendable about the slanderer. 5. Share Scripture that points to grace and reconciliation when appropriate (Colossians 4:6). 6. Keep serving faithfully; let consistent good works silence false accusations (1 Peter 2:15). Why This Matters • It reflects Christ’s own heart and proves we belong to Him (John 13:35). • God promises a personal reward: “Great is your reward in heaven” (Matthew 5:12). • Blessing others places us under the flow of God’s blessing (1 Peter 3:9). Encouragement for the Journey Choosing to bless when lied about is never easy, but the Spirit empowers us to mirror Jesus. Every prayer, kind word, and act of goodness plants seeds God can use to transform hearts—sometimes theirs, always ours. |
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