The person who first said “Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words can never hurt me” either lived as a hermit or was an out-and-out liar. Words can hurt. Words do hurt. Words can hurt a lot. Words can hurt a lot more and do a lot more long-term damage than any puny stick or stone.

Studies have shown how lasting an impression, how lifetime an impact, words can have on children. Children who receive constant criticisms about their looks, or their brains, or their abilities, grow up believing the words thrown at them. Today we hear the words “dummy,” “ “geek,” “airhead,” and “loser,” echoing in our ears.

Words can stunt spirits. Words can break hearts. We cut each other’s throats with our tongues. Turn on your television and you’ll get an acid-etched critique of others.

Real bombs and bullets are being fired off in Ukraine and Gaza. But in the war for political power and influence, it is the constant lobbing of critical grenades that keep our own back yards blasted and barren of hope.

Biblically, the “culture of critique” often hasn’t worked too well for the critics. There are certain Bible stories we tuck our kids into bed with. But there are others that give parents pause, and could very well give children nightmares.

There is a Christian radio station that promises listeners it is “Safe for the whole family.” Really? So the Bible is “safe?” Jesus is “safe?” Was that his message? “Come follow me, and I’ll lead you into a safe life?” Do you really think all portions of the Bible are “safe for the whole family?”

Based on the words of Leonard Sweet

Do YOU really think all portions of the Bible are “safe for the whole family?”

IF YOU LOOK AT THE WORLD, YOU WILL BE DISTRESSED. IF YOU LOOK WITHIN, YOU WILL BE DEPRESSED. IF YOU LOOK AT GOD, YOU WILL BE AT REST!

Please help make our world a better world by sharing today’s Message with your children and your grandchildren.