Shaming into Righteousness?

On days when it seems good to us to accuse someone of failure or to expose their weaknesses, it is more good when we have processed the information and the possible responses through the fruit of the Spirit of Jesus. Asking questions, like, “Is my assessment of the situation from the perspective of the throne of grace, where I find mercy when I need it, or is it simply my own suspicions?” or “Is the response I am considering going to bring redemption, or condemnation?” or “How does what I want to do further the work of the cross in the earth?” might help us find the mind of Christ in the matter.

Responding to the knowledge of failure or evil intent on someone’s part may give us an opportunity to change a life. It could be for the better, or for worse. When my response is empowered by faith, kindness, patience, love and self-control, I am more likely to make Jesus glad I found out about the problem. I can bring life or death to lots of situations. I want to bring life.

The practices of shaming or condemning a person into righteous behavior have proven to be ineffective. Jesus has proven that His kindness can lead us to repentance – to changed minds and changed values, which change behavior.