How does Psalm 140:11 guide us in dealing with slanderous people today? Scripture Text Psalm 140:11: “May no slanderer be established in the land; may calamity hunt down the man of violence.” Main Truths Drawn from the Verse - God denies slanderers lasting influence. Their words may sting, but they will not be “established.” (cf. Proverbs 12:19) - Divine justice actively pursues those who harm with their tongues. Slander is violence; God treats it accordingly. - The psalmist’s prayer expresses confidence that truth prevails because the Lord upholds it. Why This Matters in Our Daily Interactions - Reassurance: God protects His people from permanent damage by false accusations (Psalm 31:20; Isaiah 54:17). - Perspective: Because judgment is God’s domain, we are freed from personal vengeance (Romans 12:17-19). - Call to holiness: If God hates slander, so must His children (Psalm 101:5). Guidelines for Responding to Slander Today - Guard your own speech − “Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech.” (Psalm 34:13) − Refuse gossip, half-truths, or retaliatory rumors (James 3:5-10). - Live transparently − Honorable conduct silences lies (1 Peter 2:12; 3:16). − Maintain records and clarity when accusations arise. - Answer with grace and truth − A gentle reply can defuse hostility (Proverbs 15:1). − Speak truth plainly when clarification is needed (Colossians 4:6). - Entrust justice to the Lord − Pray as David did—asking God to expose falsehood and vindicate righteousness (Psalm 35:1-3). − Resist the urge to repay in kind; God will repay (Romans 12:19). - Seek righteous advocacy − Defend those maligned and, when necessary, use lawful channels (Proverbs 31:8-9; Acts 25:11). − Let church leadership or trusted elders help mediate (Matthew 18:15-17). - Pray for the slanderer’s repentance − “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44) − Desire their restoration even while longing for truth to triumph. Practical Checklist 1. Review my words each evening—did anything border on slander? 2. Verify information before repeating it. 3. When falsely accused, record facts, stay calm, and keep serving. 4. Hand the matter to God daily until peace replaces resentment. 5. Surround myself with believers who speak truth in love. Promises to Remember - “Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.” (Proverbs 12:19) - “Commit your way to the LORD…He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn.” (Psalm 37:5-6) - “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.” (Isaiah 54:17) Final Encouragement Because God Himself undermines and pursues slander, we can stand firm, keep our speech pure, and watch Him vindicate the truth in His perfect timing. |
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