The "Path" of Spite

When you're vexed, angry, and frustrated...what can it lead to?

Act with "SPITE" toward someone? Resentment? How is it "played out"? 

We see an example from Acts 17.

The gospel is preached to some non-Jews, and some Jews are so resentful and jealous that they do some underhanded evil...stressing 'UNDERHANDED', because evil actions are ALWAYS, "cloaked" in secrecy...

Man may not know, but God knows what is done in secret (Jer. 23:24).

A great compliment is given to those in Berea [not KY:)] - Acts 17:11.

In the same verse, an equally great rebuke is given to those in Thessalonica.

WHY? Read vss. 1-5, esp. of the jealousy of Jews in v. 5. Then, in vss. 12-13, read of how they "played out" their jealousy.

How did they "stir up" others? Notice what is said of "underhanded" speech:

Job 20:12 - “Though evil is sweet in his mouth, he hides it under his tongue..."

Psalm 10:7 - "His mouth is full of curses and deceit and oppression; under his tongue is mischief and wickedness".

But what of ourselves; are we any different? How do WE react to the "word": BELIEVE IT or STIR UP OTHERS AGAINST IT?

The use of our tongue (what we say; how we say it, etc.) can not only hinder others from obeying Jesus, it reveals our hearts.

Jesus "spoke openly" (John 18:20); because He spoke truth. When speaking truthfully, there is no need for "cloak" with our words.

The words of an old hymn, says it best: 

ANGRY WORDS, O LET THEM NEVER, 

FROM THE TONGUE, UNBRIDLED SLIP;

MAY THE HEARTS BEST IMPULSE EVER,

CHECK THEM E'ER THEY SOIL THE LIPS...