Throwing Stones . . . .

Stephen was said to be the apostle that was stoned to death.  I can't imagine a more hideous death except my fear of drowning or burning to death.  Death is frightening thought even knowing I will get to be with Christ; I can't imagine a slow torture sort of thing. That just makes me cringe!

So, after posting an opinion on Facebook regarding the positions of President Obama and Governor Romney on immigration, I was accused of "throwing stones" and judging hearts. When I read the responses of a couple of my friends it hurt much deeper than I'm sure they know.  I'm one that loves a good debate.  I'm passionate about my beliefs and why I believe the way I do, but these accusations attacked my character -who I am in my inner heart and that was possibly more painful that getting hit by a stone myself.  

First let me say it is impossible NOT to judge others.  We judge people by their actions and what they say; we do it all the time.  If someone says they are a Christ follower, but their actions show otherwise, I'd likely judge by their actions that they are a hypocrite.  (gasp-I know!)  What I won't do, however, is say they are not a true Christian.  Only God knows that person's heart and whether or not they have truly accepted the gift of salvation. 
That's not for me to say.  That would be judging the heart and only God can do that. 
 

I've pondered my friends' comments for the past week wondering if I was wrong to post what I did.  I've prayed and asked God to help me figure out how to handle the hurt, asked Him to help show me if I was wrong, and I don't feel I did anything wrong.  The hardest thing is knowing I've hurt a friend and having a friend think I am trying to judge the hearts of others.  


It amazes me still that people who love the same God, sit in the same church, and listen to the same pastor can still have such different stances on things.  Both sides fighting for what they feel is politically or socially correct and trying to use the Bible as the foundation for their fight.  It is mind boggling really - something I may never understand!

I ask God to show me if I've done wrong, misspoken, or hurt anyone.  I trust He will tell me  and trust me, if I don't hear Him right away, He won't let me sleep at night so eventually, I will get the message!  I pray I am not a stone thrower because I've realized how much it hurts to get hit by them.