Stealing is condemned in the Bible, but the beauty of Scripture is that it also offers a path to forgiveness. Whether you’ve stolen or been stolen from, the Bible speaks of justice, repentance, and reconciliation. Let’s explore the balance between holding people accountable for theft and offering forgiveness through Christ.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Burying The Dead
What Does The Bible Say About Being Falsely Accused
Psalm 35:11
Malicious witnesses rise up; they ask me things that I do not know.
This verse highlights the reality of being falsely accused and facing unjust questioning. It reminds us that there may be those who intentionally rise up against us, spreading false witness and making baseless claims.
As believers, we may encounter situations where we are unfairly accused, misunderstood, or wrongly blamed. In these moments, it is important to remember that God sees and knows the truth, and we can trust Him to vindicate us in His perfect timing.
Psalm 109:2-3
For wicked and deceitful mouths are opened against me; they speak against me with lying tongues. They encircle me with words of hate, and attack me without cause.
This passage describes the pain of being falsely accused and surrounded by enemies who speak deceitfully and spread malicious lies. It acknowledges the emotion that arises when facing baseless attacks and unjust criticism.
When we find ourselves in similar situations, it is important to remember that God is our refuge and our defender. We can bring our hurts and frustrations to Him, knowing that He will ultimately bring justice and defend His children.
1 Peter 3:16
Keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
This verse encourages believers to maintain a clear conscience and live in a way that stands as a testimony to their faith in Christ. It acknowledges that there may be those who maliciously speak against us and our conduct as followers of Jesus.
When we are falsely accused, our actions and reactions should reflect the teachings of Christ. By living with integrity and showing love even in the face of slander, we create an opportunity for those who falsely accuse us to encounter the truth and perhaps feel shame for their actions.
Psalm 27:12
Do not let me fall into the hands of my enemies; for false witnesses rise up against me, spouting malicious accusations.
This verse reflects a plea to God for protection from false witnesses and their malicious accusations. It acknowledges the vulnerability we feel when surrounded by enemies who seek to harm us through false testimony.
In times of false accusation, we can find comfort in knowing that God is our protector. We can bring our fears and concerns to Him, trusting that He will shield us and ultimately bring about justice.
Proverbs 19:9
A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish.
This verse reminds us that false witnesses and those who spread lies will ultimately face the consequences of their actions. It assures us that God is a just judge and will not allow falsehood and deceit to go unpunished.
In the face of false accusations, we can find comfort in knowing that God sees all and knows the truth. We can trust in His justice and take solace in the fact that He will hold those who falsely accuse us accountable.
1 Peter 2:23
When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.
This verse speaks of the exemplary behavior of Jesus when He faced false accusations and insults. It reminds us of His perfect example of responding with grace, humility, and trust in the just judgment of God.
When we are falsely accused, we can look to Jesus as our ultimate model. Instead of seeking revenge or harboring resentment, we can choose to respond with love, forgiveness, and trust in God’s ultimate justice.
Matthew 5:11-12
Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
In these verses, Jesus acknowledges the reality of facing false accusations and persecutions because of our faith in Him. He encourages us to rejoice and be glad in the midst of such challenges, knowing that great rewards await us in heaven.
When we experience false accusations, we can find solace in knowing that we are not alone. Countless believers throughout history have endured similar trials, and we can draw strength from their examples and the promise of eternal reward.
Psalm 119:69
The arrogant smear me with lies, but with all my heart I keep your precepts.
This verse acknowledges how the arrogant may attempt to smear us with lies and false accusations. However, it emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast in following God’s commandments despite the false words spoken against us.
In the face of false accusations, we can choose to focus on God’s truth and walk in obedience to His Word. Even when others attack us with lies, our commitment to living according to God’s precepts brings honor to Him and offers a powerful testimony.
1 Peter 4:14
If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.
This verse reminds us that if we are insulted or falsely accused because of our identification with Christ, we are blessed. The presence and glory of God’s Spirit rest upon us, providing comfort and strength in the face of opposition.
When we experience false accusations, we can take courage and find joy in knowing that our sufferings are not in vain. God’s Spirit empowers us to endure, and through our steadfastness, we bring glory to His name.
Psalm 120:2-3
Save me, Lord, from lying lips and from deceitful tongues. What will he do to you, and what more besides, you deceitful tongue?
This passage is a cry to God for deliverance from deceitful tongues and lying lips. It reflects the frustration and anguish that can arise when faced with false accusations and malicious speech.
When we find ourselves in similar situations, we can turn to God in prayer, seeking His intervention and trusting in His faithfulness. He is our refuge and the one who can shield us from the harm caused by deceitful words.
2 Timothy 3:12
In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
This verse reminds us that as followers of Christ, we should not be surprised when we face persecution, including false accusations. It serves as a reminder that our commitment to living according to godly principles may invite adversity.
When we encounter false accusations, we can take comfort in knowing that we are not alone in our suffering. Countless believers throughout history have faced similar trials, and God promises to strengthen and sustain us through our hardships.
Proverbs 17:15
Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent— the Lord detests them both.
This verse highlights God’s abhorrence of injustice, including the condemnation of the innocent and the acquittal of the guilty. It serves as a reminder that God’s justice is perfect and that He stands against false accusations and wrongful convictions.
When we are falsely accused, we can find solace in knowing that God is on our side, and He sees all things. We can trust in His ultimate justice and take comfort in the fact that He despises false accusations as much as we do.
Proverbs 14:5
An honest witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies.
This proverb contrasts an honest witness who speaks the truth with a false witness who spreads deceitful lies. It emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity when it comes to bearing witness and testifying.
In times of false accusations, we can seek to live with integrity, knowing that our consistent character will speak for itself. Trusting in the truth and relying on the witness of our own actions can counteract the harm caused by false accusations.
Psalm 38:19-20
But my enemies are vigorous and strong; many hate me without reason. Those who repay my good with evil lodge accusations against me, though I seek only to do what is good.
In this passage, the psalmist describes the challenging situation of being falsely accused by enemies who have no valid reason to hate him. Despite his desire to do good, they repay him with evil and lodge baseless accusations against him.
When we face similar circumstances, we should remember that our focus should remain on seeking to do good, regardless of the false accusations hurled at us. We can trust God to be our vindicator and to bring justice to those who accuse us falsely.
Proverbs 6:16-19
There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.
This passage includes a list of things detestable to the Lord, including a false witness who spreads lies. It reveals God’s perspective on the harm caused by false accusations and the importance of truth and justice.
As believers, we should share God’s perspective on false accusations and strive to model truthfulness and integrity. We can pray for those who falsely accuse us, asking God to reveal the truth and to bring conviction and repentance to their hearts.
Psalm 42:9
I say to God my Rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?”
This verse expresses the psalmist’s lament when feeling forgotten and oppressed by the enemy’s false accusations. It reveals the emotional pain and the longing for deliverance from unjust circumstances.
In times of false accusation, we can turn to God as our rock and refuge. We can pour out our hearts to Him, expressing our frustrations, fears, and doubts. He is always listening and ready to provide comfort and strength in our times of need.
Proverbs 26:24-25
Enemies disguise themselves with their lips, but in their hearts they harbor deceit. Though their speech is charming, do not believe them, for seven abominations fill their hearts.
This proverb warns of the deceitful nature of enemies who disguise themselves with flattering words but harbor deceit and malice in their hearts. It advises caution and discernment when faced with individuals who spread false accusations.
When false accusations arise, we should be mindful of these warning signs and rely on God’s wisdom to navigate the situation. We can seek His guidance to discern the truth and to protect ourselves from the harm caused by deceitful individuals.
Psalm 141:10
Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by in safety.
This verse expresses a prayer for the wicked to experience the consequences of their deceitful actions while the righteous are protected and delivered safely. It reflects a trust in God’s justice and a recognition that He will vindicate the innocent.
In times of false accusation, we can find hope and solace in knowing that God sees all and that He is a just judge. We can commit our cause to Him and trust that He will bring about justice in His perfect timing.
Proverbs 12:17
An honest witness tells the truth, but a false witness tells lies.
This proverb contrasts an honest witness who speaks the truth with a false witness who spreads lies. It emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity when it comes to bearing witness and testifying.
In the face of false accusations, we can choose to uphold the truth and live with integrity. Our commitment to honesty can counteract the harm caused by false witnesses and serve as a powerful testimony to the faithfulness of God.
Psalm 64:2-4
Hear me, Lord, my plea is just; listen to my cry. Hear my prayer— it does not rise from deceitful lips. Let my vindication come from you; may your eyes see what is right.
This passage is a cry to God for justice and vindication. It acknowledges the sincerity and honesty of the psalmist’s plea, as well as their reliance on God to judge rightly and see what is true.
When we face false accusations, we can follow the psalmist’s example and bring our burden to the Lord. He is our ultimate source of hope and deliverance, and we can trust in Him to bring about our vindication and reveal the truth.
Proverbs 21:28
A false witness will perish, but a careful listener will testify successfully.
This verse points to the inevitable destruction of false witnesses, contrasting them with those who listen attentively and testify truthfully. It underscores the importance of careful discernment and a commitment to truthfulness.
In times of false accusation, we should strive to be careful listeners, discerning the truth and testifying honestly. By doing so, we contribute to the dismantling of falsehood and the promotion of justice.
Proverbs 19:5
A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will not escape.
This proverb highlights the assurance that false witnesses and liars will face the consequences of their actions. It acknowledges God’s justice and His commitment to holding accountable those who deceive with false testimony.
When we are falsely accused, we can find comfort and hope in knowing that the truth will prevail and that God will administer justice. Though it may take time, we can trust in Him and wait patiently for His vindication.
Psalm 109:4
In return for my friendship they accuse me, but I am a man of prayer.
This verse describes the betrayal of a false friend who repays kindness and friendship with baseless accusations. Despite this, the psalmist remains committed to a life of prayer and trust in God.
When we experience similar betrayals and false accusations from those close to us, we can take refuge in prayer and seek God’s comfort and guidance. He is always with us, even in the midst of trials and false allegations.
Proverbs 14:25
A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is deceitful.
This proverb contrasts the life-saving impact of a truthful witness with the deceitfulness of a false one. It underscores the significance of truth and integrity in our words and actions.
In the face of false accusations, we should strive to be truthful witnesses, standing firm in our commitment to honesty. Our words and character matter, and by upholding the truth, we can contribute to the preservation of justice and the well-being of others.