Faultfinders like to criticize others, following the lead of “the accuser of our brothers” (Revelation 12:10 cf. Job 1:11; Zechariah 3:1). Since we all have faults, there is plenty of ammunition for critics, plenty to damage relationships. How do we overcome this vulnerability? By loving! That means, by forgiving, by emphasizing positives more than negatives, by giving the benefit of the doubt (1 Corinthians 13:7). “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses” (Proverbs 10:12 cf. 1 Peter 4:8). “[Bear] with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive” (Colossians 3:13 cf. Matthew 6:12-15; 18:21-35; Ephesians 4:32). Notice that the “complaint” may still exist. Not every grievance is resolved to everyone’s satisfaction. Yet love and grace take priority.
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