Careless Words

January 19

Genesis 35:16-36

Psalm 11:4-7

Proverbs 3:3-4

Matthew 12:22-50

Careless Words

“The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:35-37 NIV

Jesus Himself tells us that our words are important. The childhood chant that says, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me,” is far from true. We all remember hurtful things said to us carelessly by others. They may not have even meant the things they said, but the words cut deep, and we can still recall them word for word. 100 people can compliment us and tell us something positive, but if we hear one criticism, we dwell on that and play their words over and over in our mind. The tongue is a powerful weapon, and it is extremely difficult to tame. “All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” James 3:7-8 (NIV)

Having personally experienced the destructive power of negative words spoken to or about us, we should be sensitive to the effect our words have on others. “Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up.” I Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV) My grandmother used to tell me that if you don’t have anything good to say, you shouldn’t say anything at all. She was a wise woman. “When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is wise.” Proverbs 10:19 (HCSB) Taming the tongue can only be accomplished through prayer and intentional effort. Our natural tendency is to blurt out whatever comes to our mind. It takes deliberate effort to think before we speak. “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14 (HCSB)