Sticks and Stones

Anyone ever “put your foot in your mouth”? I seem to be the queen of this. I can’t tell you how many times I have to apologize (grudgingly) for saying something that hurt someone and I didn’t even know that I did it. 

The Bible says the tongue is sharper than a two-edged sword and boy is that true.

Proverbs 21:23 says: Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.

Today I am reminded as I witnessed someone very close to me brought down by the careless words of another. Do we sometimes need to be told things that may hurt? Yes. But it should be done in love to help that person who needs the guidance. Not in a hurtful way that tears someone down. But we are all human and sometimes we forget that the words we say can’t be taken back no matter how many times we say “I’m sorry”. Sometimes those words need to be said, but we should always be careful with the way we approach others. Some people put up a good front so that others may never know the damage of their words. But inside they are broken and hurt.

Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

            I am probably guiltier that anyone I know, but I am learning. Yes even at 49 years old I am still learning. So, today the lesson is short and sweet. Think before we speak, and if something has to be said, say it in love being careful of the fragile hearts and feelings of others.

Have a good week!