Cut By The Words Of Others?

 See what they spew from their mouths—

    the words from their lips are sharp as swords,

    and they think, “Who can hear us?” Psalm 59::7

    Sharp, cutting words can wound us deeply. And the deepest wounds often come from those we love and care about. When we are already stricken from illness or other afflictions, and a sharp tongue stabs us through the heart, we can be brought very low.

    I don't ever want to hurt someone through a careless word or a cutting remark. Words can wound deeper than sharp knives and sometimes do lasting damage to relationships. We must set a guard over our lips, and as tempting as it may be, avoid responding in kind to sharp words. Battling with words can only end in a deadly verbal duel that has no winners.

    I'm usually pretty good at not being easily offended, but sometimes it is as if my illness pulls back the shield protecting my heart and harsh words cut straight through to my core. When I'm feeling better, I can brush aside the nonsense. But when I'm at my weakest, I can be as vulnerable as anyone, maybe even more so because of affliction.

    We will all face harsh words from those around us, perhaps even from those we care about deeply. When stung by pointed words from others, we must admit our pain, take it to the Lord and give it to Him, and also trust Him to right any wrongs done to us. Keep in mind that you too have hurt others by your words, and forgiveness is needed all around.

    Perhaps stinging words have recently cut you to the heart. There is no use pretending it doesn't hurt. You need to take that pain to Jesus, let go of it, and trust Him with it. Sometimes you can let the person who hurt you know how you feel, but often confrontation makes things worse. You can let such pain remind you to be more graceful in your words to others. You can pray, forgive, and let your pain go. Be quick to overlook and forgive cutting words that strike at you.

    Prayer: Dear Lord, the words of others can bring us great pain. Please heal our wounds, and restore our soul. Amen.