Jesus' disciples were accused of being soft on prayer and fasting (Lk 5:33). The Pharisees made a judgment based only on what they could outwardly observe, and misunderstood the underlying context for the disciples' actions.
Paul was subjected to judgment and scrutiny by both the Corinthians and by human courts as well (see 1 Cor 4:3, 5). He served the Corinthians and the Lord from pure motives but was constantly misunderstood and was frequently subjected to accusations of all kinds.
Have you ever been misunderstood in your Christian walk? Have you ever served out of love and then had a person or group completely misinterpret your motives? Perhaps they shunned you or even accused you of wrongdoing (see Jn 16:2-3).
As followers of Jesus, we do not have to expend the energy to defend ourselves beyond a simple explanation on our behalf (see Mt 5:37). Rather, God's plan is that we focus on serving Him (see 1 Cor 4:1) and leave it to Him to take care of defending and vindicating us (Is 54:17; Ps 37:6). His vindication is far-reaching and complete, "bright as the noonday" (Ps 37:6). So, "commit to the Lord your way; trust in Him, and He will act" (Ps 37:5) in your defense.
| PRAYER: | Father, I put my life in Your hands (Ps 31:6). |
| PROMISE: | "The salvation of the just is from the Lord; He is their Refuge in time of distress." –Ps 37:39 |
| PRAISE: | It is Rhonda's supernatural gift of joy that best witnesses to the glory of God. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College