As a child, whenever some one teased me or called me names, I learned to recite the saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Maybe you did, too. But—is that really true?

Hurtful words can affect how we view ourselves long after they are spoken, leaving deep emotional scars.

Think about the last time you felt wounded by what someone said. I bet you have no trouble coming up with something. It may not be the words themselves. It could be the way they were said—in anger, accusation, ridicule, disrespect, or disregard.

Your words are so powerful that they will kill or give life, and the talkative person will reap the consequences.

Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭21‬ ‭TPT

Maybe it’s the words you tell yourself that causes you to stumble and keeps you from moving forward. You become stunted by the inner dialogue you reinforce by absorbing every negative comment.

Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way.

James‬ ‭3‬:‭2‬ ‭NLT

If we could control our tongues…

There is hope, a path that will help us, mapped out by scripture.

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.

James‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭NLT‬‬

And never let ugly or hateful words come from your mouth, but instead let your words become beautiful gifts that encourage others; do this by speaking words of grace to help them.

Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭29‬ ‭TPT

These verses show us the optimal way. Don’t speak in anger. Wait and listen. When you can find the beautiful gift of encouraging words, helpful words, speak those.

We can’t control what other people say, and wounds are inevitable, but we can find healing in the Word of God. His truth, his love, pours over us, restoring our souls.

Grace & Peace,

Sandy

Image by ashish choudhary from Pixabay