In our country today, it feels like corruption is everywhere. Many of us feel cheated, unheard, and hungry for justice — justice that often seems delayed. When emotions are stirred like this, it becomes easy to lash out, assume the worst, and attack anything that looks suspicious.
Recently, I tried to help raise funds for a ministry started by some friends of mine. I was saddened by the accusations and vulgar comments that began to appear — people speaking harshly about an organization they knew nothing about. I had to remove those comments, because false accusations and gossip can damage good works and discourage others from helping.
It reminded me of the parable Jesus told about the wheat and the tares. When the servants wanted to pull out the weeds, the owner said:
“No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them.” (Matthew 13:29, NKJV)
In other words, sometimes our attempts to “expose” what we think is wrong can end up harming what is good.
The Bible warns us to be careful before we speak:
“He who answers a matter before he hears it, It is folly and shame to him.” (Proverbs 18:13, NKJV)
“Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” (James 1:19–20, NKJV)
And when we do speak, we are called to build up, not tear down:
“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification.” (Ephesians 4:29, NKJV)
This is a good lesson for all of us — including me. Before we open our mouths (or our keyboards) against anyone, we should first make sure what we’re saying is true, and that our words will honor Christ. Justice matters — but so does humility, patience, and love.
“Beloved, do not avenge yourselves… for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19, NKJV)
May God help us discern wisely, speak carefully, and protect the good He is doing — even in a world filled with tares.
Action Point
We are at the beginning of a new year.
Let us make a difference this year by making sure that when we speak,
we build people up and not tear them down.
Very good, Dan. That is something we all would do well to remember.