“The king then asked, “Where is your master’s grandson?” Ziba said to him, “He is staying in Jerusalem, because he thinks, ‘Today, the house of Israel will give me back my grandfather’s kingdom.'” Then the king said, “All that belonged to Mephibosheth is now yours.” (2 Samuel 16: 3-4 NIV).
A mirage looks real from a distance, yet closer examination reveals that things are not always what they seem. Life is often like that. We hear one account, observe one action, or receive one report and quickly assume we know the whole truth. When David fled Jerusalem, Ziba came bearing gifts and accused Mephibosheth of disloyalty. David responded immediately, making a significant decision based on Ziba’s account. Later, Mephibosheth appeared and presented a very different version of what had happened.
This should make us pause and reflect on this important question: How often do we reach conclusions and make judgements before hearing the whole story? Spiritual maturity requires more than eyesight; it requires insight and discernment. We must learn to avoid making important decisions when angry, afraid, disappointed, or emotionally pressured. An impressive gesture does not necessarily prove integrity, and an accusation does not automatically establish guilt.
In our families, churches, workplaces, and social-media interactions, we should verify before we amplify. We must learn to hear both sides before deciding, condemning, taking sides, or repeating what we have heard. We must slow down and seek truth. What appears obvious today may conceal a different reality and look very different when more facts emerge. Pray for wisdom before taking sides. Sometimes, silence has a story, and absence has an explanation.
Rev. Moses A. Sodeinde
