Sometimes we may have a problem with our mouth. No way! "Not me" you may say. But there are times when inappropriate words are said that hurt or wound people and after you have said them you wish you could have had duct tape to put over your mouth. It is a ongoing discipline to practice not talking all the time and being careful what we say.
Words build up and words tear down. Words praise and words condemn. Words heal and words wound. Words bring joy and words bring sorrow. Words help and words hurt. Words are kind and words are mean. Words are truthful or they are full of lies. Words show love or they convey hatred.
Psalm 19:14 says "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer." When we utter words it can be direct face to face, over the phone, in a letter, or in todays' world ,the all popular emails and texts. Before we rush into a conversation or a letter or email, especially over an emotional issue, it is best to stop and think and decide if it is really necessary to say something. Don't just blurt something out.
We probably have all been the victims of cruel words at the hands of a friend or former friend or a family member. Sometimes it is intentional and sometimes an accident. It is sure humbling to have to go back to someone and say "I goofed up, Please forgive me." But that is what the Bible says we are to do. Do not let something fester but go and ask forgiveness and heal the broken hearted person you have mistreated by your careless words. Luke 6:37 says "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven."
Proverbs 31:26 is speaking to the ladies but men could gain something from it too. In describing the virtuous woman it says "She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." Do we stop and really think about what we are saying or are we in too big a hurry to get the words out or get the last word?
Matthew 12:36-37 tells us "But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned".
The words out of your mouth indicate your character as well. Do you make it a habit to swear? Some people say a word is just a word? If that is true, why do movies have ratings based on language and other standards? Be careful if you claim to be a follower of Christ how you react daily to those in your path. You are His witness here on earth. Let's try to do a good job of that at home first and foremost and then out and about in the marketplace. No one wants to be 'beat up' with words. James 1:26 says "If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless."
PRAYER: Guide me Lord and teach me to watch my tongue. I do not want to hurt anyone with my words whether a loved one, friend or stranger. Help me remember that I represent you Lord. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Enjoy this song "Let My Words Be Few" when you have a moment to turn up your speakers. Be blessed.
http://youtu.be/12z4dvc2kjo
NOTE: Chatty Cathy was a popular doll back in the 60's. Pull her cord and listen to her 'rattle on'. That is where I got idea for this title.
No comments:
Post a Comment