It is good to express your joy and excitement about the progress you make in life and to share your testimony freely. While this may aggravate the anger of your enemies, remember that they overcome the enemy by the word of their testimony (Revelation 12:11). Sometimes, in our effort to avoid jealousy, we conceal our successes from those who would praise God for us and disclose them to those we think are friendly. Often, enemies act more friendly than friends to draw our attention closer, much like Nabal and Ahab.
Trust and Deceit
Not all who invite you to wine and dine, praising your discretion, truly want you to see the next day. Only God knows the heart of men; even the devil is not aware of the evil that lies within. Proverbs 28:26 says, "Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe." Do not imprison yourself by trying to keep your testimony from certain people while trusting others who may also betray you. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."
Testimony as a Weapon of Victory
Understanding that my testimony is a weapon of victory brought me freedom. I no longer worry about who is offended by my progress or who is excited because my freedom in Christ allows me to be joyful about my achievements. Joseph’s story teaches us the power of sharing our dreams. Had Joseph kept his dreams to himself, he might never have reached Egypt, met Potiphar, or Pharaoh (Genesis 37-50). Proverbs 18:21 declares, "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit."
The Role of Love and Hatred
Those who love you act as vehicles carrying you to your destination, while those who hate you also propel you towards your glorious destiny. Fear no man but trust in the Lord with all your heart. Proverbs 29:25 says, "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe." Those who oppose you teach you to rely on God, and those who love you show that when God wants to support you, He will position the right people around you.
Navigating Relationships
Life teaches us that a lover can turn into an enemy, as seen with Potiphar's wife, who was once favorable to Joseph but turned against him. Proverbs 17:17 states, "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity." A time will come when those who once hated you passionately will become your friends, and those who loved you sincerely will become your enemies. Trust in men is fragile, but trust in God is everlasting.
God's Sovereignty
Place your life in God's hands for true freedom and everlasting life. Proverbs 3:6 advises, "In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Men may profess love and demonstrate it, but true, selfless love is rare. When we trust God with our lives, we find security and freedom that no human can offer.
Conclusion
Living in fear of sharing your testimony imprisons you. When you understand that your progress will offend some and excite others, you gain freedom. Embrace your testimony and trust God, who uses both love and hate to guide you towards your destiny. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, "In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."
