A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered
The power of our words is addressed well in James 3:5, as it
states, “Likewise, the tongue is a small
part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is
set on fire by a small spark.” The ability to speak words and communicate
with one another is a great gift from God. But it’s a gift that we often completely
misuse and abuse. In today’s instant communication, social media world, words
are exchanged faster than ever before…and often times that leads us to speaking
without thinking. It leads us to speak “from the cuff” without giving thought
to the impact of our words. When we abuse the gift of speaking, we cut into
those around us. When we choose to let our selfish desires and pride drive our
words, we take the great gift God has provided and we use it to destroy, crush,
and damage. The opposite of the Proverb above might be “A person that is stupid
uses his words without any thought or control…A person that is selfish and
foolish uses his words haphazardly to tear down others…A thoughtless person uses
their words to crush others.” When we are in the thick of things, when we are
in the midst of a battle, when we are caught in the heat of the moment, may we
seek restraint in our words. When we feel wronged, when we are tired, when we
are stressed, may we keep a tight rein on our words. But we must not try and do
it on our own, for that will inevitably lead to failure. Rather may we begin
each day asking to Lord to guide our words…may we take moments during the day
to seek the Lord’s discipline, counsel, and control for our words…and when the
day comes to a close, may we repent for the times we spoke foolishly and
request greater discipline for the day to come. We have a great gift in our
ability to speak…may we truly use it to serve the Lord. To God alone be the
glory!
No comments:
Post a Comment