Posted Sep 14, 2020 |
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“The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the prudent ignores an insult.” Proverbs 12:16
I think it hurts more when insults are thrust at you by someone close to you.
I can very easily ignore a strangers insults, rude behavior or bad attitude. It is more difficult doing the same when it is someone I know very well.
There have been times that nasty, even hateful, things have been said. When this happens, my initial reaction is to bite back in self-defense. It is typically our humanistic nature to bite back, hurt them the way they hurt us, but ultimately it only makes us feel worse.
What do you do when someone close to you hurls an insult in your direction, with your face being the direct target? Should you bite back, confront the hurler, forget it ever happened, or give a little grace? The Bible tells us to ignore it, turn the other cheek, forgive 7 times 70.
Let me just be the first to admit, I just answered my own question. A person really dear to my heart said something extremely hurtful, intending to hurt me and instead of ignoring the comment, I have been ignoring the person.
Apparently I need to spend a little more time with the Lord and less time trying to avoid the person.
In that same chapter it says, “There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” I believe rash words are not the only things that feel like sword thrusts but avoiding/ignoring the person gives off the same pain. I need to be more diligent in using a wise tongue to help bring healing to the situation.
Thank you Lord for the ever reminder of Your heart in daily matters.
