Category Archives: Gossip

A Godly Man

A Godly Man

A Godly Man

Some denominations use the title of Deacon to describe a lay person, who fulfills specific helper roles and responsibilities. In other churches, the title of Deacon is used as an ordained minister’s rank and well-defined duties and responsibilities. Deacons do God’s work, and help tend His flock. In this particular case, deacon refers to a lay leader.

I often listen to TVangelists. This morning, I was listening to Dr. Robert Jeffress. His story began, as with all good stories, with the introduction of the main character. His description of this person is what caught my attention. “He was a deacon, a godly deacon.”

Did you catch that? It seems to me he wouldn’t need to add the word ‘godly’ to describe this deacon.

It saddens me to realize that we, in these times, must add the word ‘godly’ to indicate a person filling such a role in the way of God. When that role was created, nobody had to question whether that person was godly.

As sad as it makes me, I can only imagine how deeply it must sadden Lord Jesus.

Bad-Mouthing Jesus

Bad-Mouthing Jesus

In Acts 9, Jesus appeared to Paul as a bright light from heaven. Jesus identified himself as “Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” [Acts 9:5] As Reverend Kenneth Copeland pointed out, Jesus didn’t say Paul was persecuting His people; he told Paul he was persecuting Jesus himself.

When we criticize our fellow Christians, we must be very careful. It is not for us to know what their mission is. We don’t know their personal battles. Leave harsh words for those who belong to this world. Criticism must be given in love, not “good intentions.” We are to correct our brothers and sisters when they step off the path, but only when and how the Holy Spirit tells us.

When we whisper behind their back, we are helping the enemy. STOP IT! Gossip comes from Satan’s toolbox.

When we are called to correct a fellow Christian, we are to pray for guidance. Let God work through you to lead the stray sheep back to the path of righteousness. God knows the right things to say and do. Give Him the lead on this, as in all things.