Is God OK with Sarcasm?
.jpg/v1/fill/w_320,h_320/file.jpg)
Questions for Blessed Tiffany - from “Young Minds Want to Know” (name changed for privacy).
……
Dear Loved One,
Communications skills are so important, and no matter our age, we can all use greater discernment with choosing the best words and images to express ourselves. Sarcasm is a dangerous form of communication because the chance to injure another is so high.
The Greek origin of the word comes from sarkazein which means to “tear flesh.”
Sarcasm is a kind of verbal irony to mock or criticize, but its intent is to show irritation or anger through a mask of lightheartedness. Through sharp or biting remarks the words said are the opposite of what is actually meant. It is often used to belittle people or situations and is used seemingly without consequence because it is supposedly used in jest. But as the Greek origin shows — it injures instead.
People who employ sarcasm often feel inadequate, insecure and have been injured themselves. It becomes a shield for them to hide true feelings, avoid vulnerability and express frustration indirectly without full emotional exposure. If someone becomes offended by their remarks, the person often tries to avoid accountability by claiming they were “just joking.”
God wishes for our speech to be handled with care — to build up one another with encouragement and wisdom, not to cut down with hurtful remarks. When we choose the right words we can share thoughts with lasting value, wisdom, and deep refreshment. It is a much better way to use the precious few words we share with one another throughout our day.
Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Ephesians 4:29: “Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you.”
Matthew 5:37: “But let your ‘yes’ mean ‘yes,’ and your ‘no’ mean ‘no.’ Anything more than this is from the evil one.”
Colossians 4:6: "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person."
James 1:19: "19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry..."
Proverbs 25:11: “A word spoken at the right time is like gold apples in silver settings.”
So, my dear “Young Minds Want to Know,” everyday we can choose to make the words that comes out of our mouths ambassadors of love, truth and encouragement. No one likes to be torn down, mocked or belittled, and by watching our own words we are also following what is often called “the golden rule” in how Jesus says we should treat others: “Just as you want others to do for you, do the same for them.” (Luke 6:31)
Stay Faithful, Stay Fearless,
…and Share the Love. ❤️
-Blessed Tiffany
*If YOU have Questions for Blessed Tiffany, email her through her website:
Subscribe to Catch the Wind newsletter & receive free 40 min "PeacefulSleep" Sound Journey
