Handle Hurtful Words with Wisdom | Ecclesiastes 7:19-22

Ever had someone’s words cut deep? Maybe you overheard a harsh comment about you, or a friend let something slip. It’s easy to take it personally—to let it sink in and fester. But today, I’ve got some wisdom that might just set you free.

Welcome to The Daily, where we go through the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every single day.

Today, we’re looking at Ecclesiastes 7:19-22:

Wisdom gives strength to the wise man more than ten rulers who are in a city.

Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins.

Do not take to heart all the things that people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you. Your heart knows that many times you yourself have cursed others. — Ecclesiastes 7:19-22

Truth 1: The Strength of Wisdom
"Wisdom gives strength to the wise man more than ten rulers who are in a city." (Ecclesiastes 7:19)

True wisdom isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about applying truth in a way that strengthens your heart. Wisdom provides more stability than political power, more security than influence. While rulers govern through laws and force, the wise govern their hearts with understanding.

Truth 2: The Reality of Imperfection
"Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins." (Ecclesiastes 7:20)

That’s a humbling truth—no one is perfect. Not the strongest leader, not the most devout believer—not even you or me. If we expect perfection from others, we’re setting ourselves up for disappointment. And if we expect it from ourselves, we’re walking in self-deception. A wise man understands—everyone wrestles with sin.

Truth 3: Let It Go
"Do not take to heart all the things that people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you. Your heart knows that many times you yourself have cursed others." (Ecclesiastes 7:21-22)

Ever been hurt by someone’s careless words? Solomon reminds us that we’ve been on both sides—we’ve been wounded, but we’ve also wounded others. Wisdom teaches us not to take every word to heart because people speak out of their own struggles, frustrations, and weaknesses. Instead of harboring resentment—let it go.

The same grace you need is the grace you must extend.

So, who do you need to forgive today? How can you practice letting go of hurtful words instead of letting them control your heart?

If this encouraged you, share it with someone who needs this reminder today. And as always—live all in for Him who lived all in for you.

#Wisdom #Forgiveness #SpiritualStrength

ASK THIS:
When have you let someone’s words affect you too deeply?
How can wisdom help you guard your heart against offense?
Why is it important to remember that no one is perfect?
How can you extend grace to someone who has hurt you?
DO THIS:
Take a moment today to forgive someone whose words have hurt you, and pray for God’s wisdom to let it go.

PRAY THIS:
Lord, help me to let go of hurtful words and not take them to heart. Give me the wisdom to extend the same grace I need from others. Amen.

PLAY THIS:
Forgiven.