Well, I wasn’t going to do another Midnight Madness tonight, but I began to think twice after reading to my daughter from her Bedtime Bible.
Normally this book isn’t too bad, aside from the very glossed over parts about what truly happened in certain stories. I suppose they figure it’s a children’s book, so they have to keep it somewhat discreet.
However, after reading it tonight, I have finally come to realize just how ill advised this book really is. And I began to wonder if this is the reason why so many Christians are often left confused on how they should treat other people.
Here’s one of the bits of advice given for today, on “How to Treat Friends…”
“If your friend is sad, do not try to cheer him up, that will only make him feel worse.”
Do not try to cheer him up??? What? I nearly took the book and threw it against the wall! Thank goodness she wasn’t reading this piece of garbage by herself, and I’m fairly sure we can find a much better book to read next time. Thankfully we have a whole set of Dr. Seuss!
Putting My Feet in the Dirt 
Reblogged this on Creative Writing Reblogged.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Some so-termed biblical stories are often disturbingly patronizing, badly written, and even lacking in dignity. How they get published is anyone’s guess! My friend’s daughter’s book had a very good collection of bible stories that were also good to read for adults. Iagree this is dreadful advice.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is the first book I’ve ever thrown away because of the content. I told my daughter that I think we can find a much better nightly devotional to read together. We have a few others on the shelf, and I will have a more discerning eye the next time.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for sharing!
LikeLike
The NLT says translates it better. “Singing cheerful songs to someone with a heavy heart is like taking someone’s coat in cold weather or pouring vinegar in a wound.” Proverbs 25:20
LikeLiked by 1 person
Still… I think Pollyanna was right. The “glad” game is the best you can do. Which contradicts this verse. but around here it really works. 💛
LikeLike
I wonder how the author came up with that lousy advice.
LikeLiked by 1 person
My daughter Brianna said, they must not have had a very good experience with friends when they were growing up. Lol…. 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, I don’t ask him to come play ball or go to the kitchen and eat crackers and milk. He probably hasn’t hit rock bottom yet. Don’t put an end to the pity party. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Give him a hug and tell him you care and tell him you wish you could always be there. That’s what I would say….
LikeLiked by 1 person