We love a good swordfight at our house. With three boys, we have not only watched numerous swordfights (from movies like The Princess Bride, various Robin Hoods and Zorros,  and The Scarlet Pimpernel) but also have staged many of our own. Plastic and foam swords leave little damage, but the real thing—it can take your neck off. As glorious as battles sound, they are bloody and leave many dead or disabled. Real swords hurt. With that in mind, look at Proverbs 12:18:

“Reckless words pierce like a sword but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”

Today, kids spar in put-down contests and while no one leaves missing limbs, the internal wounds are hidden but are bleeding all the same. Hurtful words find their mark just as swords do.

Yet, like a double-edged sword that cuts both ways, words heal as well as hurt. Encouragement, praise for a job well done, an “I’m sorry” when you are hurting, all heal rather than hurt.

What kind of swordsman are you? Guys, are you king of put-downs? Girls, are you the gossip queen? Or, do you use your words to help and to heal? If you aren’t sure, ask your parents or a close friend. Ask God to help you speak healing and encouragement to others. Give these a try this week:

Tell someone “Good job!”.

Encourage someone who is struggling.

Smile at everyone you see today.

Be a friend to someone.

Share your stories with us. What did you try and what happened?

Fitness Tip: Do you have some rollerblades in your garage? Dig them out and go skating today.