Why are insults so harmful? - Insults - TouchPoints

Psalm 55:12-14It is not an enemy who taunts me—I could bear that. It is not my foes who so arrogantly insult me—I could have hidden from them. Instead, it is you—my equal, my companion and close friend. What good fellowship we once enjoyed as we walked together to the house of God.

Insults can be most hurtful when they come from a friend.

Psalm 44:16All we hear are the taunts of our mockers. All we see are our vengeful enemies.

The harm of insults can be made worse when we focus too much the hurtful words and allow them to consume our thoughts.

Psalm 69:19-20You know of my shame, scorn, and disgrace. You see all that my enemies are doing. Their insults have broken my heart, and I am in despair. If only one person would show some pity; if only one would turn and comfort me.

Insults stir negative emotions in us. When we take them seriously, they can break our hearts and lead to depression.

Job 19:1-3Job spoke again: “How long will you torture me? How long will you try to crush me with your words? You have already insulted me ten times. You should be ashamed of treating me so badly.”

Job 20:2-3“I must reply because I am greatly disturbed. I’ve had to endure your insults, but now my spirit prompts me to reply.”

An insult can endure, taking on a life of its own in someone’s mind, causing long-term pain.

Psalm 89:50Consider, Lord, how your servants are disgraced! I carry in my heart the insults of so many people.

Because insults are not easily forgotten, they can continue to linger with us.

Luke 22:63-65The guards in charge of Jesus began mocking and beating him. They blindfolded him and said, “Prophesy to us! Who hit you that time?” And they hurled all sorts of terrible insults at him.

Insults often come in multiples, causing even more pain.

Psalm 22:6-8I am a worm and not a man. I am scorned and despised by all! Everyone who sees me mocks me. They sneer and shake their heads, saying, “Is this the one who relies on the Lord? Then let the Lord save him! If the Lord loves him so much, let the Lord rescue him!”

Insults often attack our beliefs, and we can start believing their inherent messages.