Promise you won't repeat.....

It seems to be everywhere. In our schools, businesses, churches and sadly, in our own families. Those the closest to us can hurt us with their mouths the most. Proverbs 10:18 states: "One who utters slander is a fool". I would dare to say that this epidemic has at one time or another affected someone's very soul. At times it seems like it cuts deeper than a knife in our own hearts. And yet, I'd go even one more step and admit, I've done it...be it intentional or not. Words have the power to heal and destroy. Why aren't we more careful then? The power of life and death is in the tongue. With it we bless our Lord and Savior and with the same mouth we curse men who are made in His image. It should not be this way, especially when we know that our days are numbered. What if the last thing uttered about someone was unkind? Recently, a friend of mine shared something said about me from a member of my family. It really doesn't matter who or what was said. But as I listened, I was trying to defend my family member and stop the conversation. For some reason, this was not stopping. When I got off the phone, I have to admit I was hurt. I mean hurt to the core. And I asked God to show me why this happened. He answered in my spirit and I had to feel that feeling of hurt and betrayal, mixed with confusion and anger. Then, I realized something. This is how it feels to the other person when I do it. Ouch. Lord, please help me to never speak badly of another person, help me think before I "share". Help me remember this pain...this gut wrenching pain I feel. I want to please you God.