Get Both Sides Of The Story

Get Both Sides Of The Story “The first to present his case seems right, till another comes forward and questions him.” Proverbs 18:17 This is a proverb of King Solomon which provides so much wisdom, which we should use every day before we jump to conclusions about anyone or anything. Most people are quick to come to a conclusion about any issue or matter before hearing both sides of the story. For example, we’re quick to believe in gossip about a co-worker or a neighbor. We’re quick to believe everything we hear about our sports heroes, or a politician that is being ridiculed in the press. We’re quick to condemn people who are accused of crimes that are sensationalized by the media. When we are quick to jump to conclusions, we usually don’t have the other side of the story, and there usually is another side of the story that could change our opinion. Many times when we jump to conclusions we can hurt others if they are our family, close friends or neighbors. How can we protect ourselves and keep from hurting others? There are a number of things we can do, such as to not believe just one side of a story that is told about someone. We need to hear both sides of the story, and then we can understand the situation better. We can also protect ourselves from false doctrine by testing what we hear as the Bible suggests. 1st Thessalonians “Test everything.” It is important that we know the truth, and not over react to what we hear, as we can damage and hurt someone by not knowing the full story. We need to ask God to give us discernment about what is true and wisdom about what is right. Too often, we as Christians believe in the wrong thing, and we are too quick to take a stand, without knowing both sides of the story. Ask God to help you know what is true and not be deceived by untruth, as this can damage and hurt others. My Daily Devotional Volume III July 17 Robert William Brock, Jr.