I had a situation recently where I was with my inner circle, the people I hold most dear. I asked one of them for their perspective on what it means to be a Godly man, and their response shocked me. Technically, what they were saying had some truth to it, but it was a direct attack on me.

It felt like a kill shot, and right away I struggled to breath. My wife looked at me and knew something was wrong. I stepped outside to get some fresh air, it didn’t help. Then, instinctively, I found a quiet place and a Bible and began to read.

I stumbled upon the last paragraph in Habakkuk where the prophet says that despite everything not working he will continue to rejoice in the Lord, and find joy and strength in the Lord. It was as if the wound started to close in that instant, and I was able to go about the rest of the day without anger or bitterness or any response.

As I contemplated the situation, the next day I decided to address it with this person and use it as a teachable moment. Sometimes our closest circle, even those who walk with the Lord, can be used for these kinds of attacks. Even Jesus had to rebuke his disciples at times saying, “Get away from me Satan.” Immediately this person apologized and was even surprised that the words were spoken the way that they were.

These fiery darts will come from any and all angles, what’s important is knowing how to prevent them from inflicting unnecessary damage.