How to Respond to False Accusations
Rebecca Livermore
We've all experienced it. You know, snide comments, public rebuke, and out and out false accusations. It stings, doesn't it? Unfortunately, the natural response to false accusations is to lash out, especially when there is absolutely no truth to the accusation. I suggest taking the high road instead. Here's how to do just that:
Determine whether or not to respond. At times it may be necessary to respond to a false accusation, especially if a lack of response may result in some type of negative consequence, such as the loss of a job. Other times it's best to just let it go. One positive benefit of taking the time to determine whether or not to respond is that time gives you an opportunity to get your emotions under control, which can help you do the next thing:
Defend in a calm manner. If you do need to defend yourself against false accusations, be calm about it. Keep your emotions under control.
Allow the strength of your character to shine. When people hear bad things about you, they will wonder whether or not they are true. An unfortunate attribute of human nature is to believe gossip. However, if you are truly a person of character, that will become obvious to people over time. Although false accusations make it possible for your reputation to be tarnished for a short period of time, continuing to do the right thing will, in the long run, allow the strength of your character to shine.
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Jack adds:
To me there is no greater pain than to be falsely accused. Especially when it is from someone you were just trying to help. We must remember that even Jesus was accused of blasphemy, witchcraft, heresy, and treason. And all he did was go around preaching forgiveness, mercy, truth, and healing the sick, and bringing good news to the poor.
Some people can be so cruel and vindictive. Two things I have learned in life. First, never take what the news media says as the gospel truth. Always let things pan out. I read the AP wire every day, and not a single day goes by when there is not a retraction on a previous story. Media has an agenda, and 90% of main stream media say they do not attend church services and have no concrete religious belief. They rely on hearsay, rumors, and have a personal agenda.
Second, living in a small town, I have learned one should not pass along rumors or gossip, and one should be very hesitant to believe it. Just like the media, gossipers and rumor mongers usually have a personal agenda fueled by their own likes and dislikes.
Try and place yourself in the person's place who cannot defend themselves. Always believe the best of people, as far as you can.
Remember if Jesus was falsely accused, who never did anything wrong in his life,
Satan can have a field day with the rest of us who are sinners. When I have been falsely accused, I have thought, "Give me a break, I have done enough wrong in my life you don't have to make anything up!"
It goes back to the golden rule, "do unto others as you would have done unto you"
Peace,
Jack
