Accountability In Our Words

I’m sharing this as a teaching moment to bring clarity and understanding, and to help prevent future misunderstandings. This isn’t about targeting anyone in particular; right now, we are in a good state. But the Lord reminds us that if we don’t address these issues now, we may be forced to confront them later when it’s less convenient. We need to be prepared to think clearly and act rightly, and that begins with being honest with ourselves.

Accusations are meant to serve as warnings, but they can easily become tools for spreading falsehoods. Consider how powerful gossip and unfounded accusations can be. Many of us have heard, “I’m not gossiping—I’m just telling you because I want you to pray.” But ask yourself: how many of us actually pray for what we hear? By the time a prayer request makes its way through a long chain of communication, it’s often distorted or miscommunicated, and people end up praying for something that may no longer be relevant or accurate.

When we engage in slander, spreading lies, or harboring hidden hatred, we make ourselves appear foolish and lose the power of our true influence. This behavior often stems from trying to be someone we’re not, or from suppressing our disagreements instead of addressing them honestly. By hiding our true feelings, we end up communicating only a false version of ourselves. We must start speaking our genuine thoughts rather than merely echoing what we think we should say.

As Proverbs warns us:

"A hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the just shall be delivered."

This lesson applies not only in our interactions with others but also within our own homes. Sometimes, we become hypocritical even with those closest to us—talking about how our leaders or friends should change without giving them a chance to explain or improve. This kind of discussion, held in the absence of the person involved, only serves to elevate our own opinions at their expense.

Remember, you do not have the right to undermine a trusted leader, friend, or fellow church member by speaking about them behind their back. That is not in the spirit of Matthew 18. Do not become a hypocritical communicator, for such behavior ultimately destroys the bonds between fellow believers.

Let us strive for honesty and integrity in our words, ensuring that we build each other up rather than tearing one another down.