Hearing is believing...or is it?

 

Hearing is believing...or is it?

 

Do you ever stop to think about what you are saying? Do you ever wonder how people interpret what you say? Misunderstandings have caused many a hurt feelings. But... is it the fault of the one who spoke the words, not meaning to offend, or is it the fault of the one who misunderstood and took offense? We can take casual comments at face value or we can look for hidden meaning in sincere remarks. Being aware of both giving and receiving words is a rich lesson to learn. Jesus gives us a stunning bit of information about our words...

 

"Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called "Today," so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness." Hebrews 3:13.

 

It is so important that we understand that speaking and listening comes with responsibility. God knows His people are in need of grace-filled reminders, so He calls us to encourage each other. Encouragement is shared with the hopes that it will lift someone's heart. If our words contain beauty people treasure them. The Bible says the way to avoid misunderstandings is to love one another.

 

"Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love..." Romans 12:10.

 

Whoever is at fault, it is our obligation to try to make it right as soon as possible, even if you feel you were misunderstood or overly sensitive. Speaking words and hearing words are ultimately ours to own. We can either take offense or be a grace giver.

 

"The words of a man's heart are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook." Proverbs 18:4.