“For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.” (1 Peter 2:20)
Because we all have a deep desire to be truly known, there is great suffering in being falsely accused. When someone “nails” us correctly, the best thing we can do is humbly admit: “Okay, you got me.” But when nails are being hammered into us for a crime we didn’t commit, we need a response that only heaven can provide.
The suffering of false accusation can lead men into a dark place of anger, bitterness, hatred, and vengeance. To have our dignity wrongfully stripped away is too much for us flesh to bear. We need a Savior who can save us from our unrighteous response to injustice. Jesus deserved more honor than any man who ever walked the face of the earth, and yet He was despised and rejected of men. He was counted a criminal and executed for the treasonous offense of blasphemy toward the God who He loved more than anyone ever had. And how did He respond: He took it patiently.
Defensiveness and retaliation toward our critics doesn’t get us back the respect we feel stripped of. Patience gains the greatest respect. Jesus has shown us the way. The way of the cross is the path to glory. Those who follow their Master, carrying their own cross, responding as He did, not only win God’s crown, but gain the respect of those who are watching.
Are you being falsely accused? Take it. Take it patiently. You will end up gaining more honor than any you thought you had. You will share the glory of Christ.