Who is To Blame?
by David Cross
Blame is the burden of accusation for wrongdoing. It’s right to face the truth of who’s been responsible for particular damage in our lives. It prepares the way for either confession of our own sin, or the forgiveness of others. Unfortunately our carnal nature is usually reluctant to acknowledge personal blame for wrongdoing and more ready to self-justify our own actions and point the finger at others (Isaiah 58:9). Occasionally, when struggling with issues of abuse and personal insecurity, we may feel forced to take the blame for something which we’re not responsible for, particularly when we feel under pressure from others in a position of authority.
We live in a world unwilling to accept that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23), a culture of frequent blame-shifting, and a culture more ready to claim entitlement than confess sin. Of course particular individuals may have sinned against us, and they’re wholly responsible for hurt in our lives. In this case our forgiveness of them is the way through to the healing of our inner wounds.
It’s appropriate to consider the apportionment of responsibility in any sin issue, for truth is a doorway to healing. However, the ministry of Jesus is founded in forgiveness, to release each one of us from needing to carry the defiling accusations of the enemy (Revelation 12:10-11), and enable us to walk as pardoned children of God, with all debts paid.
Prayer: Father, I choose to acknowledge blame when and where it’s due, but I also choose to become blameless, through the receiving of Your forgiveness. Thank You so much for Your truth and grace. Amen.
David Cross David is part of the Executive Leadership of Ellel Ministries, with particular responsibility for the Ellel centres in Western Europe. He is married to Denise and they have three grown up children and eight grandchildren. David has been a civil engineer and ski-touring instructor in the Highlands of Scotland. He is passionate about the teaching and practice of the healing and deliverance ministry of Jesus and has written several books: Soul Ties, Trapped by Control, God’s Covering, The Dangers of Alternative Ways to Healing(co-authored with John Berry), an A to Z Guide to the Healing Ministry, What`s Wrong with Human Rights? and, most recently, God`s Way out of Depression. You can follow a daily thought from David on Twitter: @dmcross62
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