Why Do We Slander?نموونە

Rid your heart of jealousy

If Jesus put slander on the same list as murder, adultery, and theft (Matthew 15:19), why are hurtful, untrue words so tempting for us?

Here’s one reason—jealousy. I remember being jealous of a fellow pastor whose church seemed to be doing better than mine. One day I heard that this pastor put in long hours at church. My sinful heart took that fact and jumped to the slanderous conclusion: “He’s probably a bad husband and not there for his kids.” Did I have evidence of that? No. But that assumption helped me feel better about myself, which was really about my jealousy and insecurity.

Jealousy will tempt you too. Why did he make the team and you didn’t? The coach probably played favorites. Why does she get the guys’ attention? She probably spends a lot on her looks. Why did he get the job? Probably because . . . (fill in unsubstantiated reason to deal with your insecurity). When someone gets something you want, beware that jealousy doesn’t lead you into slander.

“Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?” (Proverbs 27:4). If jealousy is hijacking your heart and overflowing your lips, run to Jesus. In his grace, he will forgive your verbal sins and insecure assumptions and offer you the antidote—himself. If God is for you, beside you, and within you, you don’t need the starting spot, the boss’ praise, or any other blessing.

I pray that Jesus can rid your heart of jealousy so your words are full of grace and truth.