““You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” Exodus 20:16 (ESV)
Fake News! This is a phrase I am sure we are all familiar with in this day and age. It seems that all manner of media, news, and even personal social media accounts are propagating false stories or accusations against someone they do not like. It has become the “norm”. This can also occur by the less common face to face interactions in our technology driven society. Moses here in today’s verse is relaying a message to the Israelites, and in turn to all future children of God, to be extremely careful that we do not “bear false witness” against any fellow man. Whether this be in a court of law by making false reports or testimony, or through gossip or even perceived “innocent” discussion about one’s character or behavior with another person. If what you are saying is not the truth and does not lift up the person being spoken about, then you are being a false witness. We are reminded by Paul in his letter to the believers in Rome to: “Pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.” (Romans 14:19 ESV)
Choose your words carefully and with great thought to whether they will harm or edify the person you are speaking about.
Jessica Ford
Communications Director
ALIVE Ministries USA
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