"Sticks and Stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me". I have heard this saying since I was a wee one. This, my friend, is one of the biggest lies ever told. It has taken me nearly 39 years to grasp the depth of this nonsense. This portrays the idea that physical wounds will hurt but words spoken will not even phase us. I would much rather endure physical wounds because they heal...eventually...usually- unless its beyond repair. (Never mind the fact that I have a high pain tolerance.) Words can cut to the bone and their effects last...and last...and last...and last... The blow from these can creep up years after they have even been spoken. Hurtful words can come in many shapes and sizes...they aren't always the ones said, or screamed to your face. Words laced in sweet, sappy innocence, go sour really quick when the intent is revealed. Words spoken by someone to get needed information for their own benefit, manipulate situations, or that are partial truths, or just flat out lies cut to the core.
God has a sense of humor in the way He teaches me things. I am reminded today to examine my own words and their intentions. Are they building someone up or tearing someone down?
James 3:9-12
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
Blessing or curse, which will you choose?
