The Hardest Little Word

"No" is such a negative word.  It is the denial of desire, the declaration that something doesn't measure up, the rejection of plans and ideas.  It's a slap in the face, a door slamming, a "Closed" sign.  It confines, constricts, controls, and condemns.  Never did two letters smash lives more quickly.

Hearing "No" requires some tough constitution, and saying it takes even more.  You must brace yourself for the word, and when it comes, what then?  "No" is isolating, and leaves you to take the next uncertain step alone.  It is dangerous to say -- for to deny a loved one is great pain, or there may come a risk of finding cruel pleasure in the duty.

On the other hand, "No" does have its beautiful place. It is the release from fear, the freedom to move on. It's a reassuring touch, a "One Way" sign. It protects, propels, and projects. Never did two letters bring such relief -- for a "No" here must mean a "Yes" elsewhere . . . or perhaps just later.

God, the perfect Father, often tells His children "No" -- always for our protection, and always so He can say "Yes" to something better.  "No" shreds our beloved rough draft and sets up a fresh blank page, which may indeed be daunting.  But it is good.  Amongst ourselves, as bearers of God's image, we must unflinchingly say "No" to evil, and often even to perceived good, so that we may be free to say "Yes" to the best.  For the best is coming -- our Father has planned it, and He has promised!

"The grace of God . . . teaches us to say "No"

to ungodliness . . . while we wait for the blessed

hope, the glorious appearing of our great

God and Savior, Jesus Christ."

Titus 2:11-13