God's word tells us in 1 Corinthians that when we were a child, we spoke and thought as a child.  Now as adults, He wants us to be mature and responsible, to put away childish things. He teaches us through His word, to bless and not curse, to speak life, and not death (Dt 30). We should be a blessing to one another.

His word tells us to encourage, uplift and edify one another (1 Cor 14). In my experience, it also means to have a sense of feeling safe.

In Patricia Evans' book, The Verbally Abusive Relationship she informs us that name calling, whether from a child or adult, originates from the same emotional development, or lack there of. The adult who continues to use name calling is not only disturbing and destructive to our emotions, but may also be dangerous.

We all have the gift of prophecy available to us, maybe we use it without knowing. Let us learn to recognize immaturity and abuse, to pray for people, but also help keep ourselves and our families safe.

PRAYER: Father, teach us to recognize abusive characteristics, in strangers as well as those we love. May your Holy Spirit guide us when evil confronts us, even in the most subtle ways. Teach us to take a stand for godly values; things and words that are pleasing in your sight, so we can share your love and truth with those in our circles. We love you, and thank you for your love for us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

May God bless all the readers of His word and truth!
Kathy

Further study: 1 Corinthians 13:11; Deuteronomy 30:19, Romans 15:2, 1 Corinthians 14:3