Children are taught to be careful with their words from a young age. To the point of chanting, "sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me." How inaccurate and untrue is this statement. Words produce more action and consequences than we may think. Look at Moses for example, he had to learn this the hard way. To the point of losing an inheritance and only getting a glimpse of the land. According to the book of Exodus, the Lord instructed Moses to strike the stone (or rock) once, and then speak to the stone the second time around. Instead they decided to strike the stone twice, therefore, disobeying Gods command. Read Exodus 17 and Numbers 20, for the full story.
Now lets reflect on this a bit. The 1st strike was authorized by God, so like an approved form of punishment, to turn the Israelites back towards God. Taking away privilege's, bringing about curses, famine etc. To sum it up; executing the wrath of God. This is the 1st strike. Now fast forward to the book of Numbers chapter 20, God is now requesting that Moses and Aaron speak to the stone and NOT to strike it. Basically, to be careful with their words. Call it pride or little faith, whatever the case, Moses failed. He struck the stone again with much arrogance. What he did not realize was that God was using him to express his love by turning his children back to him. Like a parent disciplining a child and then using a soft touch to explain why it was necessary. So in the presence of the stone (Gods children with hardened hearts), God wanted Moses to speak the following words, "the Lord rebuke you." This would have brought spiritual conviction, and a softened heart, instead of overkill. Note; The refinery process should be executed up until a certain point, if not, there will be total destruction which God did not authorize.
In case you did not realize, and as noted above, a stone is a person with a hardened heart. One bent away from God.
This in mind read the scriptures below:
1 Peter 1:7 - Tested by fire
Jeremiah 9:7-9 - Refined because of their deadly tongue
Daniel 12:10 - Purgatory and the Refinery
John 1- The Power of the Word
This is why it is important to be mindful of what you say because words can hurt you and everyone you love. Even though Gods children were rebellious, he did not want to cause more damage than necessary because of his love. So the next time you are put between a rock and a hard place, don't wish harm, instead, say the Lord rebuke you.
Let God do the work. Put on The Love.