“If anyone tells you that a certain person speaks ill of you, do not make excuses about what is said of you but answer, “He was ignorant of my other faults, else he would not have mentioned these alone.” ~ Epictetus

This is the response of love as Jesus taught.

This is not the way of the worldly minded who prefer self-justification and/or revenge. The person who puts his identity and personhood in how others view him will react in a defensive mode or be wounded.

He who accepts that he is who he is only by the grace of God:

1. Will not deny his imperfections and sinfulness, but can agree with them. I John 1:8-10 reminds us not to deceive ourselves and call God a liar by denying that we have many faults and that we do blow it. Yes, we do sin, but we have an advocate who is also our propitiation, and He is faithful and just to forgive and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
2. Will see himself through the blood of Christ and through the opinions of others. He knows that the acceptance that actually counts in life is not from accusers, but from the Defender–Jesus Christ.  His image is found in Christ Jesus, not in whether he fits into the world or conforms to the world’s mold. The Apostle Paul wasn’t relying on the approval of man, but of God. Should we not follow in those footsteps? (Galatians 1:10)
3. Will not be afraid of words spoken against him by man. He cares what God says about him. Such a person expects the unbelieving world to think of him as strange, as one who is of a different world or different set of values and standards. After all, are we not living according to another kingdom, under a king not of this world? (Psalm 27:1-3)
4. Will be able to remain at peace and in joy because he has a mediator, Jesus Christ the Righteous, who has silenced the accuser before the throne of God. He knows that the righteousness of Christ Jesus has been imputed to his account and nothing can remove it, for nothing can take away what Christ has given. (Romans 831-39)
5. Will bless and pray for those that speak against him. (Matthew 5:43-48)

If anyone tells you that you’re a no good, rotten sinner who deserves hell (probably adding some flowery adjectives mixed in the description), reply with gentleness and meekness with,

“Yes, I know. And you don’t know the half of it. But God, who is rich in mercy, forgave me of all that stuff when Jesus Christ bore my sins and their penalty when He was on the cross. And if He did it for this rotten sinner, He can do it for you. Would you like to know how?”

This video is from Shane and Shane, “Embracing Accusations.” The lyrics may even surprise you. The message is sound biblical truth to live by.