Articles
Labeling
When he came to Jerusalem, he was trying to associate with the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple. (Acts 9:26)
Have you ever been labeled? Maybe you were stereotyped because of a past decision you made. Maybe you were labeled because unrealistic expectations were held over your head. Social labeling is wrong; however, the recognition of an action (even one in the past) that is sinful is not (Ephesians 5:11).
We have to cope with the stigma of past sins. While we may ask for forgiveness, that does not mean all temporal consequences of our sins are nullified. Our iniquities change our relationships. Our reputation becomes known and our bad choices occasionally run before us.
Notice how Paul dealt with the stigma of his poor choices. He did not vent his frustrations in a verbal vilification against the Jerusalem Christians. Nor did he retain his anger like an emotional sponge. He openly acknowledged his sins (1Tim. 1:15b). He owned his mistakes choosing to do everything in his power to serve the living God and save his fellow man. What about you?
