Each one of us has at some time or the other been accused not of one but several things. Does that mean then that someone was guilty? By no means! The phrase “innocent until proven guilty,” was established to prevent innocent people from being punished from crimes that they did not commit until the law itself takes its own course.

Here is why I am opposed to the mob justice kind of philosophy.

1. There have been times when someone has spent many years behind bars only to be released for lack of evidence or because he or she was wrongly arraigned in the first case. You can imagine the animosity on both parties.

2. Ever witnessed an alleged thief beaten? Once the word “thief” goes, all including real thieves stone, kick and do all kinds of stuff to a person.
Oftentimes, innocent people have been killed. All that your enemy need do is shout the magic word “thief” and, of coursen start beating or pointing at you. I have witnessed several cases and wondered how I would have reacted if it was any of my close friends or family members.

3. Remember cases where people were lynched for being suspected of being witches?  Is there such a thing as a witch? You be the judge. All I know is that the Bible talks about it. The rest is for you to figure out. But a number of people have died for being suspected of being witches.

What should be the reaction of the accused in such a situation?

One has the right to do whatever he or she thinks is right in such cases. However, allow me to propose the following.

1. In all matters of accusations, there are basically three, and sometimes more, who knows what’s happening-the accused, the accuser, and God Himself.

2. The accused should, therefore, sort out the accusations. If there is some truth in it, he or she should do whatever it takes including asking for forgiveness. However, if it’s just accusations, then let the good Lord take care of it. Remember that Jesus was accused in all ways but never opened His mouth to say anything. That has always been the best approach.

3. Fighting it back by any means possible has never been an effective method of fighting accusations. If anything, it makes things worse.

4. The accused should also try not to annoy many innocent people whom he or she might need along the way. Even if it hurts, try to play it cool. Remember that the sympathy card plays magic like you have never seen.

5. Avoid the temptation of reading into every comment and attacking it.

If that be the case, is it fair for anyone to even consider bringing any kind of accusations as it were into a public forum like this? That will be my next posting. Stay tuned!

When all is said and done, forgiveness is the only avenue chosen by our God to restore peace and friendship that once existed. That has always been the most powerful medicine! Try it and you will see. Well, I am for forgiveness and peace! How about you?

Just a thought.

Pr Birai-612-386-4608
www.themaranathasdachurch.org