Friday; September 6

Several things have happened over the last few weeks that have reminded us that words have meanings and consequences.  Things have been said in jest or in a flippant manner – even on a national stage – that have carried with them some unintended consequences and have even had some hurtful meanings.  Now, typically, this discussion introduces us to some inappropriate racial comment, or a derogatory word used to describe a person’s gender or sexual preference; but I want to put a little different spin on it.  You see, while it has become taboo to make certain comments, it somehow seems to be okay to deride others and be shocked when they take offense to it.  Many people think nothing of calling someone “phobic” when they profess a belief that certain lifestyles are unscriptural.  Others attribute a person’s success to “privilege” while discounting a life lived with hard work and purpose.  Some people are quick to call others “prejudiced” when it is merely a difference of opinion separating conflicting views of history or current social philosophy.  I won’t say that these comments hurt as much as some epithets, but they can be cutting and tend to lead to a distrust of others.
Folks, I am not naïve enough to profess that life hasn’t been tougher on some people than on others, but I think it is important to find a level playing field.  If we are all in this together, let’s all be cautious of calling each other names or degrading one another’s observations, backgrounds or histories.  Let’s live by the simple biblical principle, “Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.” (Colossians 4:6).
Think About It!

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