If I had a dollar for every word I wish I hadn't spoken I'd be writing to you today as a millionaire. The greatest regrets in life are concerning hurtful and ill-chosen words. As the saying goes, words are like spent arrows which cannot be retrieved.
Nothing is more indicative of our true spiritual condition than our words. The control of Holy Spirit in our lives will be evidenced in our speech:
"If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless." (James 1:26)
In spite of my best efforts in Bible study, prayer and service to others, if my words are not Spirit-controlled then I nullify all else. And sadly, I've done just that more often than I care to admit. Words spoken in the heat of anger or in the absence of love have done irreparable damage.
The problem with words is that they are a "mirror of the soul". As Jesus said, "the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders." (Matthew 15:18-19)
The solution to the problem with words seems to be two-fold: cultivating a spiritual heart through the disciplines of Bible study, prayer, and meditation (Philippians 4:8), and deliberate, pro-active thought in advance as to helpful words. As Hebrews 10:24 says,
"let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds"
Careful consideration in advance of up building and nurturing words can have a powerful impact on times of Christian fellowship. Reminding others of their value in the family of God and their important role in the kingdom of God plan can revolutionize our gatherings.
May this day be characterized by Spirit-controlled speech which helps and builds up those around us.
Steve
Nothing is more indicative of our true spiritual condition than our words. The control of Holy Spirit in our lives will be evidenced in our speech:
"If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless." (James 1:26)
In spite of my best efforts in Bible study, prayer and service to others, if my words are not Spirit-controlled then I nullify all else. And sadly, I've done just that more often than I care to admit. Words spoken in the heat of anger or in the absence of love have done irreparable damage.
The problem with words is that they are a "mirror of the soul". As Jesus said, "the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders." (Matthew 15:18-19)
The solution to the problem with words seems to be two-fold: cultivating a spiritual heart through the disciplines of Bible study, prayer, and meditation (Philippians 4:8), and deliberate, pro-active thought in advance as to helpful words. As Hebrews 10:24 says,
"let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds"
Careful consideration in advance of up building and nurturing words can have a powerful impact on times of Christian fellowship. Reminding others of their value in the family of God and their important role in the kingdom of God plan can revolutionize our gatherings.
May this day be characterized by Spirit-controlled speech which helps and builds up those around us.
Steve
posted by steve @ 8:43 AM
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