Psychologists have longed studied the concept of people who care for one other have a tendency to hurt the one they love. Think of intense dialogue between spouses, the challenge of correcting a child and the way we have talked to one another at times. I struggle in these areas too. We only improve when we realize we need to change & turn to Scripture for direction in relation to our verbal behavior.
CONTROL-James 3:7-8 says For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. But no man can tame the tongue, it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. We are not being told we can’t choose what comes out of our mouths. Man has the ability to capture & tame animals but struggles to subdue the deadliest creature of all, the tongue.
PRACTICE LOVE-Galatians 6:10 says Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all especially to those who are of the household of faith. Everyone is struggling with something. Like Jesus, we are to serve one another not because we have an ulterior motive; we are to serve because we reflect Christ. Our brothers & sisters in Christ are family. Do we display “family love” towards our Christian siblings?
FORGIVE-Ephesians 4:32 says And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. We forgive because, as sinners, we have been forgiven by Christ through our response to the Gospel. Our Savior forgives & forgets our sins, so should we!
We have hurt and been hurt. Let’s all try to think before we speak, love always, & forgive quickly and often!
