Standing up to folks who want to mistreat you..... Proverbs 25:26 A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring. There are just a handful of verses which encourage a Christian to stand up for themselves. This is probably one of the most direct remonstrances regarding self-preservation. If you notice it does not directly tell us to become engaged in a physical altercation. What the writer does tell us is that a man of righteousness will not grovel or show weakness before someone who is wicked (possibly a bully, an aggressor, etc.). One of the most productive means of dealing with someone of this caliber seems to be pulling them to the side or catching them alone and resolving the matter. If we confront them publically, they typically become belligerent or they are aged on by their peers or lackeys. Speaking to them in a respectful, yet firm and decisive manner, usually will show them that we are not a doormat, nor are we desirous of conflict. There are those people who will become aggressive no matter who is around or what the situation is. They are abusive, angry and mean. These people take a lot of prayer and wisdom to deal with. You may want to consult a friend or mentor in dealing with this person. We see also that the person is a “righteous” person. This term puts responsibility upon us. We are told here to behave appropriately. When we mistreat others, abuse our privilege, are lazy, disrespect others, become condescending, or otherwise behave un-Christ-like, we bring trouble and abuse upon ourselves and cannot play the innocent when we are confronted. Our behavior and words must be such that we are in accordance with God’s will. When we are godly, we have the right and duty to stand up for ourselves and others. We are to show the world that God’s children will stand for righteousness at all costs and that we will do so correctly and responsibly. To put ourselves in front of a bull’s eye or to instigate confrontation or become engaged in verbal sparring is not our Father’s design and it gives others the idea that we are either weak and inconsequential or that we are snide and petty. God’s children are to be humble, yet strong and wise. We are to know when and how to choose our battles. If you need an example of how and when to stand up for yourself and others, you need look no further than your Savior.
Posted on: Sun, 09 Nov 2014 14:55:42 +0000
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