Scripture
Like a north wind that brings unexpected rain is a sly tongue—which provokes a horrified look.
~Proverbs 25:23, NIV
Quote
Slander is the revenge of a coward, and dissimulation of his defense.
~Samuel Johnson
A sniper is a marksman or qualified specialist who operates alone or with a sniper team to maintain close visual contact with the enemy and engage targets from concealed positions or distances exceeding the detection capabilities of enemy personnel. The old testament word for sniper is sā’·ther which means secret place, covert, covering, clandestine, or hidden. Many versions translate it ‘Backbitting’ but I like sly because it is more descriptive. A snipe is a sly, petty or slanderous remark made by a person who does not want to be identified. A sniper works covertly in an attempt to maintain anonymity. They cowardly initiate or pass on slanderous remarks but they craft their remarks in such a sly way that their base motive remains covered. They are snipers who use words instead of bullets.
James said in chapter three of his epistle, “All of us get tripped up in many ways. If a person is never wrong in what he says, then he is a perfect man.” According to James we all misuse the tongue but some of us are more prone than others because we talk more. This is why James cautions teachers, we talk more. Sometimes my sins weight heavy on my heart and the sins of the tongue may be on the top of the list. I do not conceal my position as a conservative and a believer in God’s word. Abortion is murder and homosexuality is abhorent and highly destructive but I could be kinder in my remarks. Not all liberals are stupid. The only professor in Seminary that went out of his way to help me was a liberal. I disagreed with his theology but I respected him as a person. Some liberals are blind to the truth; they have drank the government cool-aid but they are probably sincere. Sincerity is no substitute for truth but people like myself need to speak the truth in love. I always admired Jerry Falwell for doing just that and Franklin Graham excels in that area also. Bro. Jack is a little rough around the edges. He is no diplomat for sure. We all have family and friends who voted for Hillary and Obama. We can’t make it a test of fellowship.
- The high for today is 80*, wow! No rain in sight. I have never seen such a year, never!
- We have the baptismal waters ready and we will be baptizing for the next two to three Sundays. Luke 14 this Sunday night at 5:30.
- If you or you LCBS class wish to sponsor a child for CHRISTMAS, see Mandy and she will give you a name.
- OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD boxes are due Sunday.
- FORTE closed November 23-26 for refinishing of gym floor.
- THANKSGIVING DAY SERVICE is at 9:30 am with breakfast at 9:00.
