Sticks and Stones

 

As we sat visiting, I heard the familiar rumble of our truck. I knew before I even looked that my littles had arrived. They were just as excited as we were to visit with our family! They jumped out of the truck, smiling and waving, and started walking towards the porch. As they approached, I heard a comment made directly to them that left me speechless and feeling as if I had been punched in the stomach.

"Wow, you're really getting a fat gut on you".

I sat in stunned silence. We made eye contact and I could tell from the look on my littles face that their feelings were hurt. I struggled to keep my feelings and words, so many words, bottled inside. But, with God's hand over my mouth, I was able to keep it shut.

Why? Why did they feel justified in making that type of comment? Why? Why did they feel that was appropriate? Why didn't the others speak up? Why couldn't they see the hurt on my littles face? Why didn't they care? I've been told I'm over-sensitive when it comes to weight issues, and that may be so, but does that justify others speaking to someone that way? Question after question replayed in my mind.

I'm sure we've all heard the saying sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me. Have you ever notice that it’s easier to remember the hurtful things said to you than the good ones? Words are very powerful and if used the wrong way, can hurt you.  

Our words carry immeasurable significance y'all. God tells us in Proverbs 13:3 Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin. Our words can do two things: bless others or curse them.


Kindness is honestly one of the greatest gifts you can give someone. As Christians, kindness is something He expects from us. It allows Christ's love to shine through us. He doesn't want us to be unkind, we are to be different. And He certainly doesn't want us to speak unkind words!

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:32 

It's our responsibility and our privilege to use the power of our words where it's most needed. It's also our responsibility to use our words to build others up, not tear them down. As Thumper's Mama said "If you can't say something nice...don't say nothing at all."  It's that simple.