Well I Heard...

Folks love to talk.  No doubt about it.  Whether they have justifiable grounds to speak about someone seems to be at their own discretion.  Mention the Bible and what it has to say...Boom!  You've become one of those religious people that thinks they're holier than thou.  One thing is clear; slander hurts.  Doesn't matter if its true or untrue, it still hurts.  Wait a minute, I never slandered anyone you say.  Maybe passed along some info to a friend about another friend but never slandered a soul.  Really?  Is there a difference?  Gossip- rumor or report of an intimate nature. Slander- defame, to harm the reputation of by libel. Old Webster has differentiated for us but looks like Jesus has another thing to say.  "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets." (Matt 7:12) Ever been the subject of others gossip?  Not fun. Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler. (Prov 20:19)  Secular thinking doesn't detail much of a difference between the two words and Christian belief is one that says no difference. Bottom line, it is usually done with the intention of causing harm to someone's character. 

If you have been the source of slander, its time to change your course.  First thing, repent of all wrongdoing on your part, make amends with individuals in situations where that is possible, and ask the HolySpirit to help you guard your heart and mind.  Trust me, your mouth will follow whatever your mind and heart are filled with. 

If you have been the subject of slander, its time to change your course as well.  You don't have to walk around in defeat and sadness because of things done and said about you.  Pick up that chin and smile!  Its very liberating.  Don't allow it to be a source of oppression for you.  God doesn't like it anymore than you do but He can use it to help you grow. Live Strong in the power of His Might.

Journal Entry

After a couple of flooding days here in Pensacola, we are back in business.  I can't imagine what is going on underground in our sewer system but every time you drive up to a stop sign, you can hear the water rushing by underneath the streets.  Please continue to pray for the many families that had homes and vehicles flooded.  Not everyone has great insurance so there are quite a few people with damage and not enough resources to fix the situation. My family was very fortunate and had no damage.   As Solomon said to the Lord,  "You have shown great kindness to your servant", I say Amen! 

My boys have been gone for a few days to spend time with grandparents and it's crazy quiet in the house. But in a good, relaxing way.  The past few months have been passing right by us and leaving my head in a spin so the summer slowdown is very welcoming.  Somehow, we've still not taken the kids to the beach.  It's a 20 minute drive for goodness sakes so it seems like we could swing it.  'Maybe next week' has got to stop coming out of my mouth. 

I'm thankful how God provides so well.  Right down to the things you whisper deep inside, not realizing that an ear is listening.  And He answers.  Totally amazing every single time.  How awesome are your deeds Lord.  You continue to preserve our lives and sing over us with songs of love and joy.  May our lives continue to be rewritten by your mercies on a daily basis.