Proverbs 12:18 — Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.
Mean girls don’t remember what they said
But it’s funny because, well, I can’t seem to forget.
Most of my childhood was spent either singing or riding horses—sometimes both at the same time—so this felt pretty on brand. When I was thirteen, I broke my hand because the ground gave way underneath my big horse, Crispy. One trip to the doctor, a hot pink cast, and a few weeks later my hand was good as new. Eventually, I forgot all about the pain.
That’s the thing about broken bones. They heal, and life moves on.
I wish words worked the same way.
I wish the things people said when they were careless or cruel could be wrapped up, and forgotten after a little time. But words don’t heal like bones do. They stay. They replay and stick around long after the moment has passed.
If you and I were sitting across from each other over coffee, I’m guessing you wouldn’t have to think long to tell me what words hurt you most. You could probably tell me exactly who said them, where you were standing, and how small they made you feel. Because even if it’s been years, the sting is still familiar.
I’ve had my own run-ins with mean girls. People who spoke without thinking…or worse, people who spoke knowing exactly what they were doing. Either way, their words left bruises you couldn’t see but felt every time you doubted yourself or your worth. Every time, their voices shouted louder than the truth.
Scripture doesn’t sugarcoat this. Proverbs 12:18 says, “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
Some words cut deep. And some words heal deep. There’s no pretending otherwise.
For a long time, I let reckless words name me. I let them cling to my heart like they were permanent. But here’s what I’ve learned: just because words stick doesn’t mean they’re true, and just because something hurts doesn’t mean it gets the final say.
God is the One who names us. He is the One who heals us. He is the One who tells us who we really are. The voices that wounded you don’t get to write your story. They don’t get to define your future, either
Words can pierce like swords—but God’s truth binds wounds. They are what last.
So, here’s the invitation today: stop rehearsing what hurt you and start repeating what heals you. Let God’s words be the loudest ones in your life. Let them replace every label that never belonged to you in the first place.
You are not what they said. You are who God says you are.
Chosen.
Known.
Loved.
And His words are strong enough to heal what theirs never should have touched.
— LeAnna Crawford
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
- What words from your past still replay in your mind?
- Who spoke them — and have you allowed those voices to define you?
- What names or labels has God given you in His Word?
- Where do you need to replace a painful memory with a healing truth?
- What kind of words are you speaking over others — cutting or healing?
Lyrics:
I try to pray but the words aren’t coming out the way they used to
Did I lose my faith God do I still trust You (mmm)
I try to worship but when I lift my hands it all just feels so empty
Is it the heavy of the world or is it just me (mmm)
Though I’ve sung a thousand times
You’re perfect and You’ll never leave leave my side
Can I be honest
I just wanna know that You still got this
When all I’m holding onto is a promise
God You promised
That You’ll never leave me
When I’m scared of the dark You’re right there with me
Your kindness never fails, it’s always reaching after me
But right now, God all I need
Is to be honest
Oh I’ve heard stories of you showing up when it was least expected
Every time you prove your timing always perfect – and the wait was worth it
Again and again and again – see your power coming through
You bring life to what is dead – no there’s nothing You can’t do
I believe you did it then – so won’t You do it now
Can I be honest
I just wanna know that You still got this
When all I’m holding onto is a promise
God You promised
That You’ll never leave me
When I’m scared of the dark You’re right there with me
Your kindness never fails, it’s always reaching after me
But right now, God all I need
Is to be honest
Is Your breath when I can’t breathe
Your eyes when I can’t see
An anchor as the waves crash all around
Be my heart when I can’t feel
And show me something real
Just one taste of heaven here and now
Can I be honest
Can I be honest
I just wanna know that You still got this
When all I’m holding onto is a promise
God you promised
That you’ll never leave me
When I’m scared of the dark You’re right there with me
Your kindness never fails, it’s always reaching after me
But right now, God all I need
But right now, God all I need