Only… Just

Those 2 words, only and just, are NOT descriptions! Nor should they be attributed to You or you attribute them to another person. What a gigantic put down. The problem, of course, is the definitions of those 2 words. Then again, many of our communication problems occurs because we assume we all define words in the same way... and we don't always.

I've discovered, when I've heard either of those 2 words attributed whether to me, someone or something else that the person speaking them might not (benefit of a huge doubt) realize what they are implying. Personally, I don't believe these two condescending words should ever be used with/about people. I certainly don't want to be described or seen as a 'just' or an 'only'. Not new behavior. I remember... a long time ago when I was probably 6 or 7 an 'adult' speaking to someone, that children were 'just'... I also remember saying that I may be many things but a 'just' was not one of them. (Only ever so slightly precocious.)

It wasn't until years later that I realized it was a put down (or a put in one's place) comment. It was meant to be condescending. It there is any behavior that immediately strikes a reaction in me is when someone is being patronizing. Part of my intense dislike is probably based in how I was raised. There's even a scripture that talks about this. We should never ascribe a certain elevated prestige that is not ours to 'proclaim'. And, scripture also tells us that we shouldn't esteem ourselves better and that God never shows partiality.  

If you doubt my scriptural reference, let me quote one source:

   "Several Bible verses speak to God lifting us up. James 4:10 states, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." 1 Peter 5:6-7 encourages, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." Additionally, Psalm 3:3 says, "But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts up my head."

John 12:43 says: "..for they loved the approval of men more than the approval of God." Now these scriptures put a period to self-esteem and simultaneously show us Who can grant and lift us up. 

If you think I just provided the argument for only and just - no. Look at the source - it's speaking to man about man and indicating Who should be the source. No one should put another person down for any reason - that's not your role or responsibility. You also need not follow them. 

Final thought. You really CAN become an 'only' or a 'just' - but that's your choice. Never choose this... there's no benefit.