There is a saying that says, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Whoever came up with that saying never had anyone hurl an insult or something hurtful towards them. Words can have some of the most devastating impacts on us. I had a nickname given to me as a kid which, to this day, still carries a sting when I think of it. In fact the person who gave me the nickname, I still have to work at being nice to because bad thoughts can quickly fill my mind if I let them.
Yes, our instinct is to retaliate whenever something mean or hurtful happens to us. Growing up we are told to stand up for ourselves, to not give in to bullies. To walk away without doing anything takes a great deal of courage.
The Apostle Paul is sometimes hard to understand. In Romans 12:17-19, he is pretty clear on what he is saying. “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, bu ...
