The value of a sharp knife or good pair of scissors is that they can make a clean cut. Surgeons seek the sharpest of scalpels so they can do the best possible job in surgery. Ragged edges are the result of ripping and tearing something with brute strength. In our lives, we have experiences that require a scalpel when all we have is a dull machete or our bare hands. Ragged edges, pain and scars are the result. Ripped Relationships There are some areas in life that rarely exhibit clean cuts. One of the most devastating areas that I have been witness to is in divorce cases and especially when children are involved. All involved experience rips and tears. Another area that seems constantly ready for ripping and tearing is in the settlement of estates. It is often disheartening to see the acrimony and violent anger that is unleashed when someone feels he or she has been left out or did not get his or her proper share. There are many other situations that we get ourselves into that cannot leave us or the ones around us with clean cuts. Sexual immorality, such as fornication or adultery, creates much residual pain. Of course, if such a person truly repents and changes his or her ways, God is ready and willing to forgive. But even with full forgiveness from God, the tearing action upon one's life will leave huge scars and often deep, inner thought patterns that can cause pain for the rest of our lives and in the lives of others—often those we love the most. Needed Wounds There are also needed wounds, such as from a friend. These may tear a little, but a friend tries not to rip and leave a scar. These wounds originate in love and care (Proverbs 27:6). Preventing Ragged Edges All of us have hurt other humans, and perhaps we have left ragged, jagged edges in their lives. We may not be able to undo what we have done or cause the scars to vanish, but we can begin to learn not to afflict others in the same way. There are many admonitions that we can apply to our way of thinking and our character. Determination to obey God and to do better is what we all need. The book of Proverbs tells us to guard our tongue (Proverbs 21:23) and to not meddle in quarrels that are not our own (Proverbs 26:17). It gives a whole host of other sound advice on how to conduct ourselves and how to teach ourselves to think. We are able to ease the degree of scar tissue another carries. Even the wounds we have inflicted can be eased a little by our improved conduct. We can learn to use a scalpel rather than a machete. Isaiah 61:1-3 tells of Christ's mission to heal the brokenhearted and comfort all who mourn. We can follow His example and change our patterns of behavior and become deeply concerned about our “brothers and sisters” with whom we share this earth. We can become like a soothing and healing balm or ointment to those about us and to those we may have hurt—or who have been hurt by others. God built a great resilience into humans. We are able to continue on with our hurts and pains. In time, scars tend to fade and almost disappear. Some may have to wait until God's Kingdom rules this earth—but for now, each one of us can be a comforter and helper to one another. Be gentle with one another and seek the fruit of God's Holy Spirit within yourself (Galatians 5:22-23). Not only will we stop ripping people apart, we will also learn to be skillful with our words and conduct. We will be pleasing to our Lord and Master—the soon-coming King. UN Robert Berendt is a member of the Council of Elders and pastor of Edmonton, Alberta, and three other congregations.