“Fire goes out without wood, and quarrels disappear when gossip stops. A quarrelsome person starts fights as easily as hot embers light charcoal or fire lights wood. Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one’s heart.”  (Proverbs 26:21-22) In other words, “No wood…No Fire.” Another proverb says, even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.

 Over the past couple of weeks in particular I have experienced incredible peace and joy, along with mental and emotional rest by refusing to put “a log on the fire” after being on the receiving end, from what I have been told, of some pretty vitriolic public attacks including social media and other written platforms. I’ve been approached by many asking, “Aren’t you going to respond and defend yourself?”  I’ve received phone messages and fielded a couple of calls from reporters asking if I wanted to respond to what has been said, and even offered to send me an audio file that had been obtained.

 My response in both instances has been “No.” I pointed them to 1st Peter 2:19-23. That’s it? That’s all you have to say they asked.  Yup. Rather than writing out those verses in this post, I invite you to turn to your bibles and read these verses for yourself. I hope you’ll find my response or lack of one encouraging.

 What’s surprising to me as I continue to hold this position is how much peace I am experiencing.  Of course, no one gets up in the morning and says, I hope my character and reputation is attacked and torn to shreds today. But there is an amazing calm in my spirit as I hand my reputation over to the One whom I serve and commit this matter into His hands.

 As I was writing this post, I have worship music playing in the background, and sensed the Lord urging me to get up and dance. Really Lord? I have been known to dance at a wedding to the Bee Gees Staying Alive, on occasion, and maybe participate in the Cupid Shuffle along with the rest of the wedding guests, but that’s about it.  So, you want me to dance? Yes, stand up and dance. So, for the next 7 minutes and 17 seconds (It was a rendition of Ancient of Days by Ron Kenoly) I stepped away from my computer and danced before the Lord in the middle of the room. Just me, no partner, dancing and worshipping for an audience of One.

The bottom line is I entrust Jesus to do whatever He chooses to do regarding my reputation. Gossip is a horrible weapon used by the enemy of our souls that has torn countless lives and relationships apart. The Word of God speaks against it. I will tell the truth, but I will not attack or gossip against those who choose to turn their sights on me. And the result has been joy, peace, and freedom! Remember, even a fool is considered wise when they keep their mouth shut.

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