Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with GodSample

LOVING WHEN WRONGED One of the most difficult things to endure is false accusation or abuse. Jesus said this would happen. We do not live in a perfect world; and, at times, even those near us will misunderstand our motives and bring unfair charges against us. Jesus said our attitude should be one of acceptance rather than revenge. Perhaps we can tolerate being falsely accused, even if the pain is great. But Jesus did not stop there. He actually said we are to rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you (Luke 6:23). That requires a strength that does not come from these earthbound bodies. It requires a dimension of spirit that can come only from Christ. When we have been misunderstood and abused, we become more understanding toward those unfortunates of our world who suffer under the heels of oppression and evil. We identify with their suffering and can indeed "weep with those that weep." Our hearts develop a tenderness and empathy which will serve to enhance our marriage and strengthen our souls. Of course it hurts and causes feelings of resentment when we are wronged. However, we are not to take revenge. God wishes us to live by a new law of life: the law of love, which accepts misunderstanding and abuse, and responds to them with tenderness.