Evil is not the same as sin in Biblical terminology. Sin means ‘to miss the mark’ and evil is ‘a bent to harm.’ For example, nicotine addiction is an expression of sin, but promoting or selling cigarettes is evil because it fuels a harmful system. Sin is what destroys you. Evil is when you join in destroying someone else.
James 3:8 states “the untamed tongue is unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” The Bible does not call our hurtful words sinful but evil. How are you using the power of your words? Spreading criticism or your condemning opinion about someone doing wrong; does nothing to lift up the fallen. Jesus was a friend of sinners, rebuking those who accused others. Jesus taught us to pray that God would “deliver us from evil.” This both protects us and prevents us from seeking to hurt others.
What does the Bible say to do if someone is trying to do evil to us? “Overcome evil with good.” (Rom 12:21) Stay on the course of doing good just like Jesus did. The best way to counter evil is to keep on serving the Lord and helping others. You’ll never defeat your critics with words, but a legacy of love is the best defence.
Add Your Comment