DAILY READING
REFLECTION
Sticks and Stones May Break My Bones...
by Diane Ward
True or false?
A word once spoken cannot be recalled. It is impossible to withdraw one’s words or undo their effects once they have been spoken aloud.
Jesus said, “Let what you say be simply 'Yes' or 'No;' anything more than this comes from evil.” (Matthew 5:37)
In "West with the Night," author Beryl Markham detailed her work with Camciscan, a feisty stallion she was tasked with taming. She had met her match with Camciscan. No matter the strategy she employed, she could never fully tame the proud strong-willed stallion.
Many of us struggle to tame our tongues when we are angry and upset. James compares the tongue to the bit in a horse’s mouth or a ship’s rudder (James 3:3–5), he also laments, “Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” (James 3:10)
Paul advises us to “first speak only the truth.” (Ephesians 4:25) He follows up with “do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up.” (Ephesians 4:29) Paul is serious about this matter. “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.” (Ephesians 4:31) This is difficult when we attempt to do it on our own.
I owe an apology to a tree trimmer who severely cut back my beautiful Rising Sun Redbud tree. Seeing the damage as I drove onto the driveway, I was plenty upset! “What have you done!”
I will see him again soon and I will apologize for my “melt down.” Thankfully, we have the Holy Spirit who helps us as we rely on Him. I ask that my words will be thoughtful and considerate when confronted with unexpected situations.
PRAYER
Dear Lord,
Sometimes we need a reminder to weigh our words. Lashing out in anger comes easily unless we stick close to your side and read your word diligently. Thank you for your word from Proverbs 29:11: "Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end." And thank you for your forgiveness when we fall short. Amen.
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