7 Life Decisions for Spiritual PowerSample

Don’t defend yourself

In the 14th century, there was a godly man and renowned preacher in Europe named Henry Suso. He was a Dominican friar, mystic, preacher, and writer. One day, a young girl came to him and dumped a newborn baby in his arms and said, “This is the fruit of your sin.” Then she vanished. Shocked, he sought guidance from the Lord, who instructed him, “Don't say anything and raise the child.” Soon, gossip spread, and his church began to empty, leaving only a handful of followers.

One day, in his brokenness, he saw a small dog playing with a piece of cloth. The dog was barking at it, tearing it apart, and tossing it into the air. Gently, God spoke to Henry Suso. “Henry, this is what I am doing with your reputation. Your reputation stands between me and you, and I cannot use you without destroying it.” After 17 years, the young woman returned to the city and revealed to the entire community that the child was not Henry Suso’s, but that, in her desperation, she had entrusted the child to him in the hope that he would care for the child. Suddenly, Henry was seen as a godly man. His fame spread throughout Europe. Thousands travelled from faraway places to hear him speak. God used him mightily, but only after he had dealt with Henry Suso’s reputation.

Many years ago, a professor began publicly accusing me of numerous false things. He claimed that I did not believe in the cross and the resurrection, that I rejected the Holy Spirit, and that I belonged to a secret sect. I asked the Lord what I should do, and He simply replied, “Don’t say anything. Do not defend yourself.” Many who know me urged me to write a defence. They insisted that I speak out to make sure that no harm comes to my name or the Kingdom of God. I chose to remain silent. People attacked me in the media, demanding to know if the accusations they read about were true. After about three years, all the gossip, confusion, and suspicion ceased. I didn’t have to defend myself with a single word.

Carefully read Matthew 5:39 (NIV): "But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also." Also consider Romans 12:17-21 (NIV): “Encourage believers to overcome evil with good, rather than seeking revenge.”