Talk to the Hand

Remember the 1990’s’ expression “talk to the hand”? It’s a contemptuous way of expressing rejection, saying “no one is listening to you”. The phrase is usually accompanied by the gesture a traffic cop makes to stop traffic.

Contrast “talk to the hand” with a hug…

“Talk to the hand” communicates angry rejection. A hug communicates acceptance and love.

God has not put his hand up toward you in angry rejection. No, His arms are open with acceptance and love.

“God didn’t set us up for an angry rejection but for salvation by our Master, Jesus Christ. He died for us, a death that triggered life… we’re alive with him!

So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you’ll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind.” (1 Thessalonians 5.9-11 MSG)

Anger sticks up the hand of rejection.

Grace opens its arms with love and acceptance.

Let’s do for others what God has done for us… give grace.

Speak encouraging words. Build up hope. No one left out, no one left behind.

No more “talk to the hand” angry rejection of others. Instead, hug.

Arms open with acceptance and love.