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I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. -Matthew 12:36

As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. -Psalm 103:12

How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered! -Psalm 32:1

A fellow agent taught me an amazing technique: stopping bullets.

When I speak of bullets, I mean the condemnation and accusation that the enemy, and those around us may level against us. They may be personal attacks, slander, guiltmongering, etc.

As humans, we naturally will let people’s words—especially those closest to us—hit us hard, because our guard is down. But the fact is, our armor should always be close at hand…even with those closest to us, unfortunately.

The key, however, is not to bear the brunt of the bullets or absorb them…or get hit at all! It’s not even about dodging or evading them. It’s about them never reaching you.

Answer these questions

  1. Are you a sinner?
  2. How far has God removed you from your sin?
  3. Are your sins forgiven?

Shields up

If you answered that you are indeed a sinner; that God has cast your sins as far as the east is from the west; and that your sins are forgiven, then you have your shield.

The next time someone fires bullets at you, whether it’s an individual one or a rapid-fire barrage, it won’t matter. Remind yourself that you are forgiven and redeemed, and free from condemnation, and the bullets will simply hit a wall in front of you and drop. God’s promises are your shield!

When you do this (and it takes some practice), you’re exercising your faith as if you were exercising a muscle, and putting that shield up will become effortless and second nature. The one raining bullets on you will see you curiously unfazed and calm. It might enrage them more, but it won’t matter, because you have His peace and assurance that you are redeemed.

Today’s soundtrack

Casting Crown’s “East to West” will remind you how the Lamb’s blood covers our sins and cleanses us as white as snow.