Sticks and Stones may Break My Bones…
July 11th, 2006 · Posted in God Stuff · 17 Comments…but words can cause permanent psychological damage.
Chadd gave a talk at church yesterday on James 1:19-27, with a few main points that struck home pretty hard.
Be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger.
Ever noticed a dog’s ears prick up at the slightest noise out of the ordinary - they are quick to listen. We need to be slow to speak - once out of your mouth words cannot be called back. Stop. Think. Speak.
Before snapping at someone, think about what they said, what you heard, what they meant and what you took them to mean. Before you lose your head, make sure you aren’t the one who is wrong.
Words come from the overflow of the heart.
What you say reflects pretty accurately who you are - ever met a ‘Christian’ with a vicious tongue? All you want them to do is stop calling themselves Christian. Fill yourself up with good stuff, so good stuff overflows.
Words have the power to kill.
Most of us can remember a harsh word from years ago - we hold the things people say for decades. And the random comment of a stranger can affect the way we see ourself for the rest of our life. A stinging remark can hurt people. Words can drive people away from Christ. Words can damn.
Words have the power to heal.
We have been given the words of eternal life. What we say can save people’s lives, in this life and for eternity. A kind word, an encouragement, even a smile can change a life. Words can introduce someone to Christ. Words can heal.
RodeoClown: Stopping. Thinking. Posting.




