Title

Responding To Words of Emotion

Scripture
Also do not take to heart everything people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you.
(Ecclesiastes 7:21)
Devotional
The words of most people flow from a heart of emotion. People say what they feel, not what they know to be true. Therefore the preacher wisely instructs us not to take their words to heart. May I add, do not take them to heart regardless if their words are good or evil? Be slow to respond to emotional words, for when the emotion changes so do the words. Listen for truth not passion. Likewise speak the truth and not words stirred by feelings. Because of mankind’s sin nature, many folks seldom say what they mean and mean what they say. This, of course, should not be the case with believers. We are to do the opposite. Therefore, do not make hasty decisions based on the quick words of others--especially if they are cursing you. Respond to truthful words not words of emotion and passion. You will save yourself many heartaches and troubles.
Text For The Day
Ecclesiastes 7:21: Also do not take to heart everything people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you.
Thought For The Day

 

  “Oliver Cromwell, who took the British throne away from Charles I and established the Commonwealth, said to a friend, ‘Do not trust to the cheering, for those persons would shout as much if you and I were going to be hanged.’” Warren Wiersbe 

Questions To Ponder
Morning Study Guide
Defining:  Emotions: “The anxiety and or reflex of a surprised mind. A place in the mind where decisions are not to be made. Emotions are not to be trusted, but tested by time and reason, the Word of God, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.”
 
Referencing: “Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them,” Ephesians 5:6-7.
 
Applying: The directions are quite clear; do not take insults or compliments too seriously.