We were lied to when we were taught the nursery rhyme, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.” Lies, lies, and more lies.
I was sitting and minding my business when the enemy — the devil, the adversary, whatever name you use — brought back to my memory some words spoken to me in anger by someone I love. Those words hurt me all over again. The enemy repeated them exactly as they were said before, just to cause maximum damage. And I almost fell for it. I felt that same sting, like it had just happened.
But thank God for the Holy Spirit. It rose up in me and spoke life to my heart. The Holy Spirit reminded me that I had already been healed from those words and had forgiven the person who said them. Immediately, the pain lifted. Yet my mind started singing that old nursery rhyme again — “Sticks and stones may break my bones…” — and the hurt I felt proved that rhyme was never true.
Have you ever looked at the mean or hurtful things you’ve said and immediately repented? I’ve had to do that. I’ve also had to shut my mouth when those same kinds of words were trying to come out. I come from a “snap back” culture — if someone says something mean, you’re expected to clap back. You can’t be a punk, right?
Wrong.
Let them say whatever they want. It’s either the truth or a lie, and arguing won’t change either one. But saying the wrong thing can get you in trouble with God — and I don’t want those kinds of troubles.
“The tongue can speak words that bring life or death. Those who love to talk must be ready to accept what it brings.”
Proverbs 18:21 ERV
“Do you want to enjoy life? Do you want to have many happy days? Then avoid saying anything hurtful, and never let a lie come out of your mouth.”
Psalm 34:12–13 ERV
“A gentle answer makes anger disappear, but a rough answer makes it grow.
Proverbs 15:1 ERV
“Speak without thinking, and your words can cut like a knife. Be wise, and your words can heal.”
Proverbs 12:18 ERV
“When you talk, don’t say anything bad. But say the good things that people need—whatever will help them grow stronger.”
Ephesians 4:29 ERV
So with all that being said, let’s be kind to one another. Let’s offer grace in the middle of life’s situations. We all have a frustration point, and when it’s reached, we lash out. Let’s stop. Instead, let’s look for words that bring life, not death. Words of kindness and compassion. Words that leave people feeling seen, not judged.
Words DO hurt — so let’s choose the ones that heal.
