Beginning with the passage we noted yesterday and going on into the next two verses we read. . .
“(18) I confess my iniquity; I am sorry for my sin. (19) But my foes are vigorous, they are mighty, and many are those who hate me wrongfully. (20) Those who render me evil for good accuse me because I follow after good.” (Psalm 38:18-20 ESV)
Anyone who looks closely enough at our life can find something of which to accuse us. What needs to be seen, however, is that we are sincerely trying our best to live up to the standard God has given for life. His wisdom is to be made evident in practical ways in our day-to-day living.
Still, making it clear we are striving to live right does not remove us from being accused by the world. At times we may be accused because the goodness of our life exposes the wrongness in others. For those around us to acknowledge what is right and honorable in our life places them in a position of being self-condemned if they refuse to turn from their ways to the Ways of God. Our motives for what we do may also be wrongfully judged, leaving our good and God glorifying actions to be slandered based upon worldly perspectives.
Peter exhorted. . .
“(11) Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. (12) Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you [accuse you (NLT)] as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.” (1 Peter 2:11-12 ESV)
In the end it will all be clear. Let us not give up doing good to the glory and praise of God. May we continue following after it!
Have a great day LIVING HONORABLY IN THE SIGHT OF GOD AND MAN!
Carl
