PODCAST
Just a Joke?
July 1st, 2025
Proverbs 26:17-28
When we use careless words that hurt others, or have potential to damage relationships, we are often quick to say, “It was just a joke.” It’s a way for us to not accept responsibility for our careless words. Proverbs 26:19 specifically uses this as an example of what we shouldn’t do. The wise use words thoughtfully.
This is illustrated again in verses 20 and 21, when gossip is viewed as something that fuels the fires of strife. It’s an example of careless and thoughtless speech. As mentioned yesterday, our words hold power, both the power to destroy and the power to build up.
When we are thoughtful with our words, and we stop ourselves from saying things that are dismissive or careless, then problems die down. When we aren’t thoughtful, calamity ensues.
We can all probably point to a time where we were thoughtless with our words, and someone got hurt. We can also probably remember a time when someone’s careless words hurt us. How can we challenge ourselves to be thoughtful with our words this week and beyond?
Author: Robbie Cansler
