Wounded

David had felt the wounds of his “enemies.” But these were not enemy nations. Some, no doubt, were rivals, or men and women with whom he had differences. But David particularly felt wounded by people he thought had been friends.

The goal of these “enemies” was not physical harm but mental, emotional, or spiritual wounds. To discourage him or help accomplish their goals.

This kind of pain can be inflicted by spreading rumors and saying slanderous things. Regardless of their motive, others can wound us by their words or looks, by ignoring us or taking us for granted. Their actions may not cause physical scars, but the impact can be deep and even crippling.

If we ever feel wounded in these ways, we must be careful not to retaliate. Like David, our first response should be to take these problems to God. To apply the principles in His Word. To pray for others and seek His guidance.

We need to remember that we provide the standards by which we will be judged. That “by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:37). It may be hard, but we are to “do to others what you would have them do to you” (Matthew 7:12).

We also must realize how easily we can hurt others, even accidentally.

Ask God to help you be sensitive to the impact of your words and actions. Be careful not to spread rumors or gossip. Seek to be a person others can count on, motivated by the selfless love of Christ.