Our wisdom for today is from Proverbs 17:13.
“If anyone returns evil for good, evil will never leave his house.”
One of the most ignorant things anyone ever says is, “It’s my life. I’m not hurting anyone but myself.” Look at today’s reading again. It does not say that your offense will affect only you. It says it affects your entire house.
Of course, there are personal consequences. The person who returns evil for good begins to develop a hardened heart, becoming more prone to bitterness and anger. This negative mindset affects an outlook on life, leading to the perpetuation of harmful behaviors.
There are also family consequences. The immediate family of the person committing these negative actions is directly impacted. Children, spouses, and other household members are exposed to an atmosphere of negativity and conflict. This environment can lead to emotional stress, anxiety, and a lack of peace within the home.
Children and younger family members often emulate the behaviors they observe. When they see a family member responding to kindness with malice, they may begin to adopt similar behaviors.
One writer put it best when he said, “Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children.”
I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.