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Our accusations of others often stem from the need to conceal or distract from the impurity within us.
They suppressed their consciences;
they would not allow their eyes to look to heaven,
and did not keep in mind just judgments.
The Pharisees were no better. They didn't accuse the woman caught in adultery out of a sense of justice. They did it to assert their own self-righteousness and pride. They used her as a mere pawn in their plans to show that Jesus too was ultimately no different, a sinner among sinners. They probably believed that they were without sin. Yet it was precisely such accusations as these that kept them from needing to take a deeper look in their own hearts.
If our accusers our wrong about us and we cannot vindicate ourselves let us learn to entrust ourselves to God.
Yet it is better for me to fall into your power without guilt
than to sin before the Lord.”
Even if our accusers accuse if justly let us learn to trust in his mercy.
Has no one condemned you?”
She replied, “No one, sir.”
Then Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you.
The LORD is looking for sincerity of heart in his followers. He makes quick work of those who try to hide behind wisdom and righteousness. He defends all who humbly bear accusation.
"He catches the wise in their own craftiness, and the schemes of the wily are brought to a quick end" (See Job 5:13).
There are times when we are more our less innocent. But there are many times when we are guilty of the adultery that is idolatry, when we choose to prefer something less than God to God himself. In both cases we can entrust ourselves to Jesus. He himself was accused. Though he was innocent he opened not his mouth. In spite of his lack of defense he was finally ultimately vindicated. So too for us, if we at least, like the good thief, entrust all of our hope to Jesus.
The whole assembly cried aloud,
blessing God who saves those who hope in him.
If we need not fear the accusations of the world or even the voice of condemnation that speaks from within, what need we fear? None but God alone.
Even though I walk in the dark valley
I fear no evil; for you are at my side
With your rod and your staff
that give me courage.
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