Sensitive Repertoire

Read Proverbs 25

Singing cheerful songs to a person with a heavy heart is like taking someone’s coat in cold weather or pouring vinegar in a wound.

Proverbs 25:20

Early radar systems functioned with such dulled sensitivity that they often picked up a flock of birds as a formation of planes. Imagine the resulting mishaps, wrong landings, and missed calculations! In the same way, our sluggish sensitivity to others’ needs causes us to misfire when it matters most. We are often too preoccupied with ourselves to pick up on others’ feelings or emotions. Instead, we carry on with our own cheery selves—indifferent to those with heavy hearts.

This proverb vividly illustrates coming upon someone in need, only to leave that person in worse condition! Proverbs sharpen our radar images, teaching us to notice. Instead of overlooking and further saddening a person who already feels ignored, we can stop and take note. Practicing the proverbs makes us helpful in that moment. Instead of unrealistic platitudes or other efforts likened to vinegar in a wound, we can learn heartfelt ways that offer salve to someone who is hurting.

A WORD FOR TODAY

Practice wise encouragement.

Today, Lord, I want to be tuned in to the needs of others. Show me how to be helpful with my words and actions.