Read Luke 4:21–22

My kids pulled a fast one on me one Christmas many years ago. They teamed up, pooled their vast financial resources, and bought me a little motto to set on my desk. It was more than cute...it was convicting. In bold, black letters it read:

DIETS ARE FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE THICK AND TIRED OF IT

At first you thmile...then it makes you thad. Especially if you’re not thick of being thick!

There’s another thickness that’s just as bad. We could call it an “inner thickness.” I’m referring to insensitivity...being unaware, lacking in insight, failing to pay attention. The Hebrew Scriptures occasionally mention those who are foolish and simple, as in the book of Proverbs (1:22-33). The original term means “thick, dull, sluggish.” It’s the picture of mental dullness, one who is virtually blind toward others. It’s what we refer to as “clueless.”

Professional insensitivity is painfully common. To some physicians, you’re case number 23 today...a body, weighing so much...a mouth, saying words...a gall bladder needing removal.

And how about insensitive teachers or even preachers? Talk about painful! A block of information is dumped into your ears from their mouths. Whether it’s interesting or well thought through is unimportant. The whole episode is about as memorable as changing a flat.

We can be insensitive with our children or grandchildren or those who report to us in the office, or even our spouses. When we’re insensitive, people around us feel the thickness in our words. How different from Jesus!

He began to speak to them. “The Scripture you’ve just heard has been fulfilled this very day!” Everyone spoke well of him and was amazed by the gracious words that came from his lips. (Luke 4:21–22)

Do the people closest to you stare in response to the insensitivity in your words? Or are they refreshed and encouraged by the gracious encouragement you offer? Take time to reflect on that today and ask the Lord to soften your spirit, keep you keenly aware, and genuinely gracious—like Jesus.

Devotional content taken from Good Morning, Lord...Can We Talk? by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2018. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, a Division of Tyndale House Ministries. All rights reserved.

The full devotional can be purchased at https://www.tyndale.com/p/good-morning-lord-can-we-talk/9781414380681.