How Do You Protect Yourself?

In light of this situation, I think all should be wary of what they need to do to make sure they are doing what they can for protection. I think there is always going to be trouble, but certainly we should not put ourselves in situations that could be the talk of the town.

In the same vein, though, sometimes we are almost too overboard with stuff that we fail to do ministry.

As a single woman, I feel more at liberty with my social life, but try to be careful not to be (alone) with married men. And certainly, although I have had and do have good relationships with my pastor(s), I do not strive to be alone with them like at a restaurant, in the car, etc. Windows on office doors left open help to clear up a lot of misjudgement.

 

In my former life 'the trick bag' was an ever present danger. Failure to follow policy and procedure to the T could result in some serious consequences, and even then there were no assurances that there would be no accusations (though I never was accused, to my knowledge). I was fortunate to belong to a clique that watched one another's back, and would get in each other's face when it was needed. We all need a reality check at times.

"If all your life you live with a clean conscience, you need not fear a knock at the door at midnight." Old Chinese Proverb

What would be a good corresponding passage from scripture?

 

Even in protecting yourself, one person with a grudge can affect your reputation. Love God. Love your wife. Never be too private with children or members of the opposite sex. Stay in His Light and the rumors will be exposed.

 

That works well, I have to say. But I still add what I was was taught at home from childhood on, never be alone with a female that wasn't my wife or a child that wasn't my child. I can't say I make an effort to do it, but it was taught so much and often, that I still do it today without thinking about it.

 

You fellas are forgetting that Long's accusers are male.

Now what do you do?

 

Great suggestions there. I would add that a pastor must guard his family time as well. Every couple needs time just for themselves to nurture their marriage. Oftentimes, ministry needs can keep a man too busy, too tired, and too overwhelmed to take that time alone with his spouse. The devil loves to wait until we are tired, weak, and off-guard to attack.

 

I think this goes for females, too.

I think these situations must keep us in that "above reproach" range. This should not keep us from ministering to those of our same sex, though.

 

Always keep arm's distance away, male or female. Never an ounce of trouble.

I am not huggy buggy with anyone. Doff hat to ladies and shake hands with men...oh, may shake hands with ladies if they offer their hand first.

I stuck to my lifelong rule of thumb: Friendly to all, familiar with none.

Cheers,

Jim