Later, Hater

We’ve all been talked about.  Maybe the culprit was just an acquaintance, or maybe they were a close friend. Either way, when we are talked about, we feel offended and maybe even a little hurt.

​But believe it or not, gossip goes back to Biblical times. Need proof? Peep Psalms 55:12-14
This isn’t the neighborhood bully mocking me—I could take that. This isn’t a foreign devil spitting invective—I could tune that out. It’s  you ! We grew up together! You!  My best friend! (MSG)

Your first instinct may be to run up on that person and confront them about talking about you behind your back.  If you’re a woman of a “certain age”like me, that fiery girl of your youth may want to show up for a brief visit to settle the score.

But don’t go there. ( Lord knows you don’t need to end up in jail! )

So what do you do?

First off- don’t react right away.
Remember Ecclesiastes 7:9 - which says
“Don’t be quick to fly off the handle. Anger boomerangs. You can spot a fool by the lumps on his head.” (MSG)

Secondly, pray! 
Yes, PRAY! Talk to God, not your friends. GOD is your best friend, He will never turn His back on you and He will never deceive you. Stay quiet and remember  Psalms 4:4-5 which says:
Keep your mouth shut, and let your heart do the talking. (MSG)

And finally, if you DO decide to talk to the person, be calm!  John 14:27 says: 
 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you." God has given us the peace we need to be able to confront those who hurt us.

Even if you decide not to confront the person, remember, "For the battle is not yours, but God's" 2 Chronicles 20:15. You don't have to address everything someone does to you. God's in control.

People are going to talk! Don’t let the “haters” in your life take control.  Concentrate on living the life God planned for you!