Proverbs 18:14 (NLT): “The human spirit can endure a sick body, but who can bear a crushed spirit?"

“Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never harm you.” This was a rhyme we were repeatedly told when we were young children. However, truth be told, harsh, unkind words can do far more damage to a person than a physical injury that will always heal with time. If we don’t learn to take those hurtful words, and release them to the Lord by speaking out forgiveness to the one who spoke them over us, we will never truly heal. The sad reality is that many people never reach their potential or live out their destinies because they have held onto the hurt caused by mean, destructive words that were spoken against them. If you find you are unable to move forward in life in the joy and freedom you should be experiencing, because you’re holding onto a wounded heart, then it’s time to get it healed. Surrender your hurt to the Lord, speak out forgiveness and release that offense to Him. Only when you do that will He be able to step in and heal your brokenness, turning your sorrow and pain into joy and a promise-filled future.