Sometimes, as Christians we are lead to change major parts of our lifestyle that previously never seemed to be a problem. We, in living by His teachings, sometimes must step away from things we once enjoyed or situations we may have been content with before becoming a follower of Christ.
For example, I used to cuss like a sailor. I didn’t really cuss out of malice or hatred, more just for the theatrics of it. It was a way to make the conversation more outrageous, or as I once considered, “colorful”. But once I really began to feel the Holy Spirit and the unlimited kindness and gentleness of Jesus, I realized that even if the intent of those words were not hateful, they still left their mark.
Plans are made in human hearts, but from the Lord comes the tongue’s response. All one’s ways are pure in one’s own eyes, but the measurer of motives is the Lord. (Proverbs 16:1-2)
Sometimes words, much like our actions, may be intended one way, but may leave a negative impact on our spirits and the spirits of others around us. We know that Christ is the Word and we know that the Word that He speaks are the Spirit and the Life. How powerful words can be! They can be our very salvation, but when used wrecklessly, they can even be our downfall.
I sometimes find myself to be a very emotional, impulsive person. Especially when it comes to defending someone, I can be quick with a quip. Sometimes, although intended to be course-correction for the target, my words can also be seen as judgmental or taken as an attack. When I think about the power of the Word of God, I must remember that my words have impact as well. I try every day to take a moment to stop, breathe, and think before I speak- whether it is in jest or in a moment of passionate, “righteous” anger.
Plus, intent does not always matter. You may not mean to hurt someone, but you also may not be thinking about whether or not it might hurt someone. Is what we are saying helping the person? Is it a good thing to say? If not, why are we saying it at all?
No foul language should come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for needed edification, that it may impart grace to those who hear. (Ephesians 4:29)
Of course, actions always speak louder than words. We can always say we live a certain life or will make certain decisions, but our actions show our true character. But this does not mean that our words can not leave permanent scars on the world around us, and on ourselves.
If someone tells you that you are ugly, would you not take a moment to reflect in the mirror and see what is “wrong” with you? Words can leave haunting echoes in the minds of people who hear them. But it’s not just how we talk to other people, self-talk is also very crucial. Let’s say we are reading scripture aloud in church and we mispronounce a word. Would we call ourselves stupid? If we made a habit of calling ourselves stupid for every mistake, it would only be a matter of time before we adopt that as a part of our identity and give up trying altogether, and what a shame that would be.
My prayer for today:
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for giving me the ability to discern my word choices and for giving my voice power in the world- with myself and with others. I ask you, dear God, to help me to use my voice for good. Help me to lift up my brothers and sisters in kindness and in love. Help me to hold my tongue and take time to shift my thoughts when I feel the urge to exclaim negative thoughts. Please continue to use the Holy Spirit to guide my words so that their impact and intention are aligned and in accordance with Your will. Amen.
Comments
Post a Comment