Poisoned Perception

Have you ever seen generosity die in the hands of gossip? Let me explain.

Someone sets out to do good, but before they can follow through, a petty, small-minded person steps in, stirring suspicion and planting seeds of bitterness.

Suddenly, the kind intention vanishes, not because of truth, but because of poisoned perception.

This plays out every day in families, workplaces, churches, and communities.

More often than not, our minds are not influenced by facts; they are easily swayed by borrowed offenses, secondhand hate, rumors, and inherited bitterness.

We see the same pattern in Scripture. In the days of Paul and Barnabas, the unbelieving Jews not only rejected the gospel but also influenced others against believing in it. 

Instead of dealing honestly with the truth, they did what small-minded people often do: they tore it down and worked to turn others against it.

There are two lessons here: First, do not let others shape your view of people or truth through their bitterness. Second, when confronted with the truth, make an independent decision.

Everyone has the right to hear the truth and make their own decisions. Why should someone else lose that right to believe just because another person disapproves?

This is a wake-up call. Do not let someone else’s offense become your lens. Do not adopt their enemies as your own.

And if you say you believe the Bible, examine it honestly. Who did Jesus ever poison against another?

Who did He ever lead into hatred? None! He called people to walk in truth, in love, and in clarity.

So protect your mind. Keep it clean. Let it be governed by truth, not tainted by the emotions or judgments of others.

Reflection Question: Have you ever watched a generous act dissolve because gossip poisoned the atmosphere before it could take root? What does it say about our hearts when we’re more influenced by suspicion than by truth?