World Magazine reports on some wacky consumer labels. A contest sponsored by the Michigan Lawsuit Abuse Watch gave out prizes. First place went to a label affixed to a toilet brush that read, “Do not use for personal hygiene.” A children’s scooter had this ominous warning, “This product moves when used,” and took second prize. The contest reflects the trend of the last few decades toward lawsuit sensitivity on the part of manufacturers. You can hardly bring home anything from the store that doesn’t have some ridiculous disclaimer.

Christians should be both sensitive and insensitive. What do I mean? Well, when it comes to personal insults, slights, and remarks, we should learn to develop a thick skin. Too often, we let something someone said at the office or a comment by a loved one ruin our entire day. We may even retaliate with a nasty retort of our own or go tell fifteen of our friends how poorly we were mistreated.

We’re to love and tolerate our fellow man, even when they rub us the wrong way, even when they insult us in some way. What the Bible does say to be sensitive to is the needs of others.

By doing this, we not only save ourselves a lot of damaged relationships, but we contribute in a small way to a less-sensitive society.