YOUR TONGUE
There’s nothing more painful than hearing someone you respect speak put-downs in your direction. I once was second guessed by an influential businessman in the church. He didn’t know what I knew and I couldn’t betray confidence to straighten him out. So I just had to take the criticism.
For the next week or so we’ll be looking at some of Solomon’s Proverbs. The Proverbs are written in Hebrew poetry. That’s poetry that doesn’t rhyme, but does have a rhythm and a twist of truth. For example: “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” (Proverbs 12:18).
Our words spoken carelessly may vent our pain, but they can create even more pain sent out from us. A wise person knows when to keep thoughts to themselves and bring healing to another. There are times I’ve wanted to blurt out, “Well, what did you expect?” “Stupid is as stupid does.” “How’s that working for you?” But wisdom says, “Bite your tongue and show mercy”.
Control your tongue today and focus on using it for healing.
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