Friday, November 8, 2024
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. Ephesians 4:29
The Weight Of Our Words
Every day the gap is getting wider between what the world sees as truth and what God’s truth is. As we grow in our relationship with God, things that used to not bother us, now makes us uncomfortable. We see things in a different light as our hearts and lives are transformed. What once was normal and acceptable for us has changed. We now look to the spirit of God within us to define what is acceptable and good for our lives. As Christians, we can be a light in the darkness one way we can spread light is with our words.
We have been learning about all the fruits of the Spirit. When we have been transformed and are walking with Jesus, the fruit of the Spirit will be evident to others around us in everything we say and do. Our words and how we use them are very powerful. We are called to speak the truth in love. It takes patience, kindness, and self-control to deliver the truth in gentles and love.
The heart and the mouth are connected, therefore we have to take care of our hearts to make sure we bear good fruit, like kind and uplifting words. The Bible says For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. If our heart is filled with hate, anger, or bitterness, it will find its way out and usually it comes by mouth. Our words have power, either for good or evil and we be should giving more grace and helping to draw others closer to Christ. Satan is working against us, encouraging speech that will tear people down and destroy the work of Christ.
The trouble with social media and texting is that it takes the personalization out of the message, and that takes the people out. When we aren’t speaking to someone in person, it is much easier to say things we would never say to their face. We can also be greatly misunderstood in text or posts. On social media, texting, or in person, we need to remember whose we are. We represent Jesus Christ and the church in all we say and do. Our words have the power to turn people away from the cross or cause them to decide that they don’t want to have anything to do with Christians or the church. We are the example Christians to those around us, and they are all watching what we are doing, and how we are doing it.
We need to think before we say or post on social media:
- Could this message be misunderstood?
- Could someone find this offensive?
- Will I misrepresent who I am in Christ by saying this in this way?
We have a responsibility to not cause others to stumble. Wrong words or words spoken in the wrong way can cause others to stumble. Really think about what you say. Be the hands and feet of Jesus while sharing life giving words in the darkness of this world.
I will guard my ways, that I may not sin with my tongue;
I will guard my mouth as with a muzzle. Psalm 39:1
