Today’s Blog: No Scoffing Allowed

TODAY’S PROVERB: Throw out a scoffer and strife will go out, quarreling and disgrace will cease. Proverbs 22:10, TLV

We’ve all experienced it. The uncomfortable moment when a scoffer alters an atmosphere from hopeful and cooperative to discouraging and divisive. The scoffer injects cynicism and non-constructive criticism for reasons only they know, but the root of those reasons comes from a place that wants to destroy unity.

The most disconcerting thing about the scoffer is how easy it is to become one! There are certain emotions and sins that create openings in our hearts:

• Disappointments/ discouragements,
• Self-righteousness
• Need for control
• Pride
• Greed
• and Fear

But, mostly the root of that scoffing is from the pain of unforgiveness.

My name is Terri, and I am a recovering scoffer. The Lord has been mercifully rooting it out of me for years. If I’m not observant, it can pop up in the most awkward of situations. When I want to shout that one word “Whatever!” and walk away.

It’s when I notice that surprised response to something I’ve said, most times, I’ve slipped back into scoffing.

Of course, that means I need to acknowledge and apologize for it, which is embarrassing. I just hope I haven’t caused any hurt.

The good thing? I can spot a scoffer. And you can be sure I will approach with caution, firmness and grace, just as others have done with me.

So, I give you permission, my friends, to hold me accountable if you witness a snide remark coming from my lips. Remind me that the scoffer is not welcomed, but the real Terri is.

May the scoffer within and without be removed, my friends.

Proverbs 22:10 Tree of Life Bible Society, Tree of Life Version – TLV, #tlvbible, #tlvproverbs

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