This morning I ran across a couple of verses that absolutely slayed me with conviction. They are Ecclesiastes 7: 21-22. Let me give them to you in two translations and one paraphrase and then the commentary from the MacArthur Study Bible by John MacArthur. I don’t think there is a need for any commentary from me on these verses. I’m too busy repenting!!
Do not pay attention to every word people say, or you may hear your servant cursing you–for you know in your heart that many times you yourself have cursed others. (NIV)
Don’t eavesdrop on the conversation of others. What if the gossip’s about you and you’d rather not hear it? You’ve done that a few times, haven’t you – said things behind someone’s back you wouldn’t say to his face? (The Message).
Also, do not take to heart everything people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you. For many time, also, your own heart has known that even you have cursed others. (NKJV)
MacArthur Study Bible notes on verses 21-22: “Since you have many offensive words to be forgiven, don’t keep strict accounts of other’s offensive words against you.”
GULP!!
