Much of what we have seen recently on the news regarding the government, religion, law enforcement and much more has caused great anger, frustration and suspicion for many. Though we hope to love and forgive everyone as the Bible tells us, we are human and these emotions may take over at times. We must find ways to express them without regretting what we say or do.
The other day, a member of my staff shared a story about her experience of cursing without cursing: “Growing up in a Christian home, using profanity was not encouraged. In fact, it was forbidden. At approximately eight years old, I learned that “Sugar, Honey, Ice Tea” was a clever substitution for actually exclaiming the common profane expression.
“One day while in the back seat of the car, my grandfather was frustrated at the poor driving of another individual. I waited till my grandfather completed his rant, and I shouted ‘Sugar Honey Ice Tea!’ Well, I didn’t get the congratulatory response that I was expecting. My grandfather angrily responded ‘What did you say? Don’t let me EVER hear you say that again!’ That was the day I learned that cursing was prohibited, both blatantly and subliminally.”
Ask Guideposts’ OurPrayer team to pray for you!
Where do we turn for words and feelings that express our deepest emotions without cursing or doing something worse? I suggest we read the Psalms. They capture raw, honest and vivid feelings of living in the real world as they integrate praise, pleading, prayer and even a desire to see others harmed–feelings we all have felt, but seek to refrain from doing.
Human emotions need to be expressed, but how we do it matters. Which Psalms have helped you to deal with your emotions and why? Please share with us.
Lord, let me turn to You with all my feelings, knowing and trusting that You understand my heart and will guide my emotions in a positive way.
