Admittedly, I have a sensitive spirit. With that in mind, I want to try to explain something that is very hurtful to me yet may affect others differently – raised voices and harsh words. When voices elevate or sharp tones are used (even if the words are not directly addressed to me), I feel like I am pierced. I think the psalmist understands as he laments about those “who have sharpened their tongue like a sword. They aimed bitter speech as their arrow.” Psalm 64:3

While some may be inclined to fight back with words, I withdraw. It feels like a piece of my heart is being ripped away. Since my spirit is wounded, I want to protect myself because I no longer feel safe to be myself.  My trust is chipped away.

So I am writing to anyone who stumbles upon this blog urging you reflect on the power of words, how just a few careless words spoken harshly in anger may affect some people. It could be a thoughtless label such as “control freak” or “lazy.” It could be an angry tirade after a difficult day. Perhaps it is even a heated debate where you vehemently argue your point. It may even be a sarcastic joke.

Our culture says it’s perfectly fine to vent and argue and label. But we are each created in the image of God and should consider the impact our words have upon each one whom God treasures. Our tongues hold an amazing power of life and death. Choose to wield yours to bring life.