Have you ever been accused and punished for something you did not do? Well, most people who grew up in a large family have experienced being blamed or punished for something they did not do. It’s one thing to be in punishment for things I am guilty of doing, but it’s tough to accept accusations and punishment for something that I am not guilty of. Sometimes God will allow us to be accused and punished for things we are not guilty of doing so that He may get greater glory from your life. Yes, God allows! After all, He is the potter, and we are clay.
One of my favorite Bible characters is Joseph. He is an excellent case study of someone being punished or accused of something he did not do. It began with his brothers who allowed the spirit of jealousy and envy to strip him and put him in a pit only to sell him into slavery. Josephs’ brothers lied to his father by telling their father that a wild animal killed his favorite son. To make matters worse, he was sold as a slave in Egypt where an Egyptian by the name of Potiphar, an official and captain of Pharaoh’s bodyguards purchased him. While working as one of Potiphar’s slaves, the Lord granted Joseph success, and his success brought success to Potiphar’s house. Joseph experienced success even in the most adverse condition, working on another man’s property. Potiphar recognized the favor on Joseph’s life and is aware that his house is being blessed because of Joseph. Joseph is now given the responsibility of running the official’s business and household.
Not long after being put in a position of authority, Potiphar’s wife becomes attracted to Joseph and attempts to seduce him. When she is not able to seduce Joseph, she falsely accused him of trying to rape her. Once again Joseph is falsely accused and put in prison for something he did not do. Listen to his complaint while he was locked up in Pharaoh’s prison, “For I was in fact kidnapped from the land of the Hebrews, and even here I have done nothing that they should have put me into the dungeon.” Genesis 40:15 (NASB)
Like Joseph, you may be in a situation where you are being punished for something you did not do, or someone is accusing you of something you did not do. People may be talking about you or judging you for some act you are not guilty of. Like Joseph, you may have a moment, but don’t allow that moment to linger too long. Focus on God, and not the accusation and lies. Allow God to fight your battles and vindicate you. Remember, “‘No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their vindication is from Me,’ declares the Lord.” Isaiah 54:17 (NASB)
Let me encourage you by saying don’t lose hope, don’t be discouraged, and don’t be disappointed. God is about to get greater glory from your life, just hold on. God is about to turn things around. The same lies and accusations are about to work in your favor, so get ready for the change. Vindication is from God, and God alone!
Be Blessed,
Bishop Jemmott