Sheeesh. Sometimes the Bible can be so . . . comprehensive. No man? Really? How am I supposed to do that?
When the Bible gives a command, we can immediately know 2 things:
- It is possible for us to obey
- It is important for us to obey
It is possible for us to obey because of other promises that God has made in His Word to us.
- I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13.
- No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10:13
It is important for us to obey because of what obedience means in God’s economy.
- Then Samuel said: “Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams. 1 Samuel 15:22
- If you love Me, keep My commandments. John 14:15 (Jesus speaking)
- He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him. John 14:21 (Jesus speaking)
Therefore, this command to speak evil of no man (or woman) is possible to obey and important for me to obey. Our next post will explore what it means to speak evil of someone and why it is banned among God’s people.
Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips. Psalm 141:13
