words kill

If, in any way I belittle those who I am called to serve…

if I talk of their weak points in contrast, perhaps, with what I think of as my stronger points…

if I adopt a superior attitude, forgetting to consider the wisdom of the voice that asks me, inwardly, “Who made you different from the one you are criticizing—and what do you have that you have not been given?”

If I can easily discuss the shortcomings of the sins of any other person…

if i can speak in an offhanded way, even of a child’s wrongdoing…then I know nothing of Calvary love.

 “You’re familiar with the command to the ancients, ‘Do not murder.’ I’m telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder. Carelessly call a brother ‘idiot!’ and you just might find yourself hauled into court. Thoughtlessly yell ‘stupid!’ at a sister and you are on the brink of hellfire. The simple moral fact is that words kill.

_Matthew 5:21-22

My Father, how often do my words “singe” someone else? (And how much time do I spend thinking critically about another—so that nothing but words that singe come out?)

Today, Lord, work in me. Change the though-life in me when I strip others of dignity…or reduce them point by point…in order to build myself up.

And give me Your voice, to speak words of value…admiration…encouragement…compassion and kindness.

Originally written by Amy Carmichael