By Floyd Godfrey, PhD

Have you ever been falsely accused or misrepresented by someone you once trusted? Has your name been dragged through the mud by lies, gossip, or a carefully crafted smear campaign? If so, you know the pain runs deeper than most people realize. The Bible calls this bearing “false witness” (Exodus 20:16), and it is a deeply wounding form of betrayal. While society may treat rumors and slander as passing drama, those who experience it often live with long-lasting emotional and spiritual consequences.

The Devastating Power of False Witness

False witness is more than just a bad report—it is a weapon used to attack a person's integrity, character, and relationships. Scripture is clear about how destructive it is. Proverbs 6:16–19 lists “a false witness who breathes out lies” among the seven things the Lord hates. When someone lies about us intentionally, or spreads distorted information to manipulate how others see us, the result can be devastating.

Often, this unfolds as a smear campaign —a calculated effort to discredit someone in the eyes of others. These campaigns may begin with a subtle half-truth or one-sided story, then escalate as gossip spreads and others join in, either knowingly or unknowingly. Whether in a church, workplace, or family system, this behavior is toxic and deeply contrary to the teachings of Christ.

The Hidden Pain Few Understand

What makes false witness so painful is not just the loss of reputation—it's the loss of trust, safety, and community. For many, the emotional impact is similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In fact, some victims experience symptoms such as:

• Hypervigilance: Feeling constantly on edge, wondering who to trust.
• Emotional numbness: Shutting down emotionally to cope with the pain.
• Avoidance: Withdrawing from social situations or even church fellowship.
• Nightmares or flashbacks: Reliving conversations or confrontations.
• Depression or anxiety: A deep sense of helplessness and despair.

These symptoms can leave someone unable to function in everyday life. Survivors may feel like they're losing their identity, haunted by a false narrative that others believed.

A Biblical Perspective: You're Not Alone

Scripture reminds us that false accusations have always been part of the believer's journey. Joseph, for example, was wrongly accused by Potiphar's wife and thrown into prison despite his integrity. As Roman Zanoni wisely observed, “Potiphar's wife ruined Joseph's career, but it didn't matter.” Why didn't it matter? Because God's favor was never taken from Joseph—and He used that painful chapter to lead Joseph to a greater purpose.

David was slandered and hunted by Saul. Jesus Himself was condemned based on false testimony. If you are walking this path, know that you are in the company of the faithful—and God has not forgotten you.

Moving Forward With Boldness

Healing from false witness takes time, prayer, and truth. It is often tempting to hide in fear or sink into bitterness, but the call of God is forward motion. In the words of Zanoni again, “You must move forward with boldness and be encouraged.”

Here are a few ways to move forward:

1. Cling to God's truth: Let your identity be rooted in Christ, not in others' opinions. Read Psalm 27 and Psalm 31 for comfort.
2. Find a safe circle: Surround yourself with people who know your heart and will walk beside you.
3. Pursue healing: Christian counseling can help you process trauma and rebuild your emotional foundation.
4. Protect your peace: Set healthy boundaries with people who perpetuate gossip or manipulation.
5. Trust in God's justice: The need to explain or defend yourself can be overwhelming—but ultimately, God is your defender (Psalm 18:2).

False witness may distort how others see you, but it can never change how God sees you. He is your Rock, your refuge, and the one who works all things—yes, even betrayal—for your good.

So if you're wounded today by lies and mistreatment, take heart. Your story isn't over. God still has a plan, and your faithfulness in the fire is not in vain.

Floyd Godfrey PhD is a Board Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed clinician for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensing. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey PhD at www.FloydGodfrey.com