While there is usually a hint of truth in every opinion, perspectives can change in an instant. Professional athletes can be a hero one day and a goat the next. Politicians can be on the verge of becoming the next president one week and the next treated like road kill, kicked to the curb and buried by the media. If this isn’t disturbing enough, just post or tweet something politically incorrect and your reputation will be ruined or severely tarnished.
When the islanders saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, “This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, the goddess Justice has not allowed him to live,” Acts 28:4.
Despite the century, jumping to conclusions and first impressions are a part of history. Just ask the apostle Paul who endured a shipwreck only to become bit by a viper while starting a fire to keep warm. This led the citizens of Malta to assume Paul was cursed by God, not able to escape justice. After surviving this poisonous snake’s venom without any ill effects, the tide of public opinion changed. Days later Paul’s legend grew, like a god.
The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead; but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god, Acts 28:6.
I guess the moral of this story is to keep a level head. Don’t allow the gossip, opinions or rumors which spread daily to influence how you feel. Rather, mind your own business and try to live a quiet life, pursuing what’s right. In the end, people will know you by your actions, love and words. Let God be in the final judge, until that day, press on to do the work that the Lord has created and called you to do on this earth.
by Jay Mankus
