Thursday, April 5, 2018

Thursday, April 5

THURSDAY, APRIL 5, 2018


"Reckless words pierce like a sword,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing." (Proverbs 12:18)


Many of us have heard the line that "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." Though this phrase may bring solace for a moment, the Scriptures declare in multiple places that this statement doesn't really hold water. In fact, we understand from Proverbs 18:21 that "the tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit."

In fact, British comedian Stephen Fry has recast the statement to read: "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will always hurt me. Bones mend and become actually stronger in the very place they were broken and where they have knitted up; mental wounds can grind and ooze for decades and be re-opened by the quietest whisper."

If others' tongues may "pierce like a sword," so may ours. How often have we spoken careless or "reckless" words in a moment, only to have them ruin days upon days? Words resemble a perfume that, once released from its container, may not be recaptured. Of course, the perfume's aroma may take both positive and negative forms, depending on the hearers, tone, context, and content.

How may we invest in our words so that they may not strike like a sword, but rather "bring healing"? The acrostic THINK may prove helpful. Before speaking, we should evaluate our statements under the light of:

T: Is it true?
H: Is it helpful?
I: Is it inspiring?
N: Is it necessary?
K: Is it kind?


Sarcasm and complaining, which come quite easily, don't pass this test. Gossip falls short, too. We may also use this rubric for considering the self-talk or inner monologue that we bring out each day.

Even with great advances in technology, we still remain accountable for our words, in front of our God and Father and others. While our words may appear anonymous or inconsequential in a social media context, they still have "the power of life and death." Please consider these thoughts when posting on-line comments.


Lord God, please guide our hearts and minds so that, when we speak, we may bring life rather than drag others down. Bring us peace and joy by Your Holy Spirit so that we may share this fruit with others. Transform our hearts by the renewing of our minds. In Jesus's Name, amen.

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