Proverbs 12:18 There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
I recall frequent childhood scuffles taking place within the Cato household. With six children, a variety of pets and houseguests, and parents who advocated the value of daily chores, opportunities to argue, quarrel, and bicker were abundant. Ruckuses could be boisterous but short-lived due to our parents’ cease-and-desist policy. House rules required an apology from the guilty party, and we quickly learned that all parents are adept at uncovering the guilt party. (An impressive skill since rarely did the guilty party profess guilt.)
Solomon, in all his wisdom, was an expert in household scuffles. Having more wives and children than he could count, (nor possibly recall their names) certainly he witnessed an abundance of strife within his palace walls. In Proverbs 12:18, Solomon compared rash words to wounds made by a sword: piercing, bleeding, and painful. I cannot help but wonder just how many “word-wounds” consumed his day. He knew firsthand the benefits of kind words, for just a few chapters later he wrote, “Kind words bring life, but cruel words crush your spirit.” GNT
Parents need the wisdom of Solomon when it comes to handling word-wars. When fights and arguments erupted on our home-front, the troops were gathered, and apologies required. But not just any old apology would do, only a sincere apology from a truly repentant heart. So, on the occasions when our childish words of, “I’m sorry!” were offered void of sincerity, “Say it like you mean it,” is what we heard.
“Say it like you mean it,” indicates our hearts be engaged in the apology. The sentiments of our words must originate from deep within our souls and spring from a well of compassion within us and not from the shallowness of our lips.
Words are tricky things. We can use them to build each other up or tear each other to pieces. Words can soothe a broken heart or rip a heart asunder. And, we must remember, the tone in which we speak our words is as important as the words we speak. Appropriate words of compassion offered in emptiness and in vain, leave a strain on relationships. My parent’s advice rings true for all mankind, not just rowdy children. If we desire to bring healing to relationships and people, we must engage our hearts and, “Say it like we mean it.”
Father God may our words never fail to bring glory to You.
Blessings,
Rita Cochrane