The Two Voices
By Linda Gray
Jesus stood up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” John 8:10-11 ESV
It was yet another set-up by the Pharisees. They would not stop at anything to trip up Jesus. John 8:1-11 sets the scene for one of their many schemes. They brought a woman caught in the very act of adultery. Interesting that they didn’t bring the man involved as well.
Of course, Jesus saw right through their ruse. He always did. He let them present their argument. Then He simply bent down and scribbled in the dirt. He stood up, brushed the dirt from His hands, and gave them the opportunity to stone the helpless woman. The only stipulation was that they had to be without sin.
We’re not sure what He wrote. There is a lot of speculation. But it was enough to send them on their way. They were faced with their own sinfulness.
The woman stood there in all her humiliation waiting for Jesus to confirm her fate. She had heard the condemning voices of the Pharisees. She was well aware of her immoral act. She must have felt like nothing to have allowed herself to fall so far.
She then heard a different voice. It was firm, but kind. Matter-of-fact, but loving. His was the voice of Truth. It always has been.
During the times when we feel ashamed, afraid, or unworthy we need to recognize that is not the voice of our Savior. It is the voice of our enemy, the Devil. In Revelation 12:10 he is referred to as “The accuser of the brethren.” He finds enjoyment from reminding us of our past sin. Sin that has been forgiven and forgotten by the One knows us best and loves us the most.
We must choose each day which voice we will heed. Remember, if the voice speaks condemnation it belongs to the father of lies. And as the song by Casting Crowns proclaims Jesus’ voice is the Voice of Truth. It tells a different story. Will you join me and choose to listen and believe the Voice of Truth?
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your forgiveness of sin. I’m so glad that You will never condemn me. You will never remind of me the times that I have failed You. Help me each day to discern Your Voice and follow You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
© 2020 by Linda Gray. All rights reserved.
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Originally published Friday, 04 September 2020.
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