For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a coverup for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the King. (1 Peter 2:15-17 NIV)
Ignorance
Perceptions can be dangerous. Ignorance is simply defined as the lack of knowledge or information. I find perceptions to be ignorant. It’s usually false perceptions of individuals or situations that lead to foolish talk. Ouch! Writing this statement felt like popping a rubber band against my arm. I’ll be honest, I have been on both sides of this thought. I’m too quick making assumptions, at times. Then I am confident not all thoughts about me are accurate. I am not perfect- there I said it.
Humor
A bit of humor is good for our souls. Honesty helps break us into freedom.Then there are those who have airtight profiles of perfection- I meant freedom, who see this as a way to hide sin. This sneaky business leads straight to bondage. No one is fooling God. He knows all things, He sees everything. If a person is hiding something, they will shun light. Those who shun light will be ones to have ignorant talk- most of the time. Perceptions stir responses each way.
Pilgrimage
For all who are pilgrimaging forward shining lights, it is God’s will to continue to do good. Our responses matter to God. It’s easy to become trapped by our words. A situation so easily slipped into. We constantly guard ourselves to make sure we’re not identified as foolish men. Looking through perceptions to find truth takes effort. Getting to know people takes effort. Taking time to listen- discarding perceptions are steps toward showing proper respect.
Perceptions
Dear friends, let’s no longer allow perceptions to stir unhealthy thoughts or actions. Love finds no fault, covers all wrong does not eliminate our need to speak truth in love. The book of Proverbs is full of wisdom detailing what to do with foolish individuals. God’s desire for His children:
- Show proper respect to everyone.
- Love our brothers and sisters in Christ.
- Fear God- a holy reverence and level of respect.
- Honor the king.
Forward Friday! Let’s move forward honoring God. As we continue to do good, we will silent the ignorant talk of foolish men.
Be encouraged!
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