Mockers incite a city, but wise men turn away anger. Proverbs 29:8, TLV

Incite or Encourage?    Remember the old adage, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me”? If only that were true. As we can see in today’s proverb, mockers can incite people to violence. In the past, we’ve seen that — places like Baltimore, Ferguson, Chicago, Detroit—and now, in the Middle East and around the world.

These days there is a lot of incitement in our country. At a time when we should be rallying around our leaders with prayers for wisdom, we’re sniping and criticizing. Words that cause division and confusion.

Despite that age old adage, words can cut more deeply than a stick or stone. And many times, those wounds are much more difficult to heal.

Right now, in these scary times, our heart and mind are especially susceptible to words. We’re hungry for information. Concern for loved ones in Israel or Gaza. Questioning our own safety. Some want to blame others and take in those toxic words of accusation. Others are drawn to drama and find satisfaction in passing on that drama, that fear.

Social media is filled with information and images. Statistics, reports of death, rapes, hostages seem to cause critics to mock and question.

And then, there are the words of encouragement.

What can our words give?

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline [sound mind].  2 Timothy 1:7, NLT

Whether we speak or write them, we should pay as much attention to how we say things, as what we say. Even if what we say is Biblical or correct, we may taint it with our own emotions or fear — or agenda.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any virtue and if there is anything worthy of praise—dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8, TLV

What are some practical ways to monitor our words?

• True: Before we post, text, or verbally pass on information, make sure it is accurate. I’ve received so many false “you’ve been hacked” messages that I’ve lost count. Because everyone is hungry for truth, be sure what you pass on is true.*
• Honorable: Frustration can lead to criticizing our leaders with how they’re handling any situation. Unfortunately, political rhetoric has polluted constructive criticism. If we are not able to be part of the solution, then pray (1 Timothy 2:1-4).
• Just: Speaking up for the voiceless is important, but there is a fine line between speaking up and toxic criticism. If we have inroads to the powers-that-be, then go to them first (Matthew 18:15-17). Follow the Biblical approach don’t just spread dissension.
• Pure and Lovely: Our words can create a picture in the minds of others. What are our words painting? Beauty, humor, joy? Or, division, fear, confusion? Do we encourage or incite. Let our “medium” be God-pleasing.
• Commendable and Worthy of Praise: Have you seen the stories? Stories about people bringing meals to dangerous areas? I love seeing them, how about you?

These are the things we’re to dwell on. If there is bad news, couch it in good news — hope. Share a passage that points the reader/listener to a loving Father.

Sometimes I don’t speak when I should. Other times, I speak when I shouldn’t. By keeping my eyes and ears on the LORD, I can continue to learn how to salt whatever I speak with the words of Life. And isn’t that what we all want?

Let our words please our Father, my friend.

Think More About It

What are the words you have used in this difficult season?

I so appreciate your thoughts and experiences. If this blog was helpful, please share with your friends. Thanks so much.

God bless and continue to pray for peace!

*There are ways to verify information. Check to see if the source is reliable. If it is not a recognized news source, be sure you personally know the person giving the information. Snopes.com is a relatively good resource to fact check news and information. I’ve received messages about Christians ready for martyrdom that were false — in fact some of these messages are 10 years old. Don’t pass on false information.