Today’s Scripture: Proverbs 19:11; Philippians 4:8
Another problem with not judging accurately is that we may take on the other person’s offense because we are biased toward them. We aren’t responding based on fact. We’re responding based on who we want to win, regardless of the facts.
Several years ago, I accompanied a friend who had to appear in court over a minor infraction. We arrived early, which allowed us to observe other cases the judge was hearing. In one particular situation, a woman was pleading with the judge to believe her story and rule in her favor. The woman’s father blurted out, “Your honor, she’s telling the truth. The things her husband did to her were horrible.” The judge asked him, “Were you an eye-witness to any of these alleged actions?” “No,” he replied, “but she told me all about it and she wouldn’t lie” “Sorry,” responded the judge. “That’s hearsay and not admissible in court.”
Solomon’s admonition to “overlook an offense” no doubt means we should patiently ignore when someone else offends us. But, maybe we should overlook offenses committed against other people, as well—no matter how close they may be to us. Paul nailed it when he said, “. . . whatever is true . . right . . . pure . . . think about such things” (Phil. 4:8). Hearsay is not allowed.
- Whose offense are you carrying? What made you pick it up in the first place? How can you release it?
- How can you discipline your mind to think about whatever is true, right, pure, and of good report?