TRIMMED

My husband hasn’t seen a barber in decades. But before you envision him as shaggy as a yak or buffalo, be aware that every few weeks he sits down on a stool in the kitchen for me to return him to his low-maintenance buzz-cut. I can do that. But if he wanted some of the men’s hairdos I see around town—partially bleached, shorn in interesting patterns—he would need to find another barber!

Switch this over to a spiritual analogy: I know I need a trim daily. I need to look into the mirror of God’s Word to make sure my attitudes and actions are pleasing in His sight.  The Holy Spirit is His scissors, snipping away at the wild locks like resentment when someone has wronged me with false accusations and slander.I recently ran across this quote by Augustine, a fourth century theologian and one of the most influential Christian leaders of his time:

Heal me of this lust of always vindicating myself.

Both of Peter’s letters in the New Testament encourage Christians who suffered for doing what’s right. That old problem is still around. That’s why I’m lifted by verses like 1 Peter 3:15-16, which remind me to be prepared to answer those who don’t like me (or my faith) with gentleness and respect, “keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” Or in the previous chapter (2:19): “It is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God.” In other words, God doesn’t miss a bit of the scene when we’re treated unfairly.If you need more encouragement, try this online Bible reference: https://biblereasons.com/false-accusations/

From time to time, I review a bookmark that contrasts 36 characteristics of proud, unbroken people with those who are broken and humble and have experienced God’s revival.  Prepared by Bible teacher Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth, it’s also found here:

https://www.familylife.com/articles/topics/faith/essentials-faith/repentance/proud-people-vs-broken-people/

Sample contrasts: Unbroken people:  “Quick to blame others.” Broken people: “Accept personal responsibility—can see where they were wrong.” Unbroken people: “Blind to their heart condition.” Broken people: “Walk in the light.”

Nothing about vindication here.  Instead, Peter advised: “Humble yourselves...under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time” (1Peter 5:6).

Just don’t take my word for it. If you’re feeling down about people who put you down, read both of Peter’s letters. Trust me, if you need a spiritual trim and a personal boost, the Holy Spirit is a great barber.