Watch Your Words
Ex 20:7 "You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name."
Matt. 12:36 "And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak."
God made us expressive beings, so we are nearly lost without communication. That is why we have audio recordings and Braille for the blind, sign language for the deaf, and writing for anyone who has something to say from afar. Speech has enormous implications, especially as a vehicle for sharing the gospel . Therefore, we are commanded to control the tongue, to “keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies” (Psalm 34:13). A Christian’s speech should consistently honor the Lord.
James 3:7-8 People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God.
The words we say reveal what is in our hearts. The Bible vividly describes bitter words as arrows (Psalms 64:3), sharp and poisonous as a serpent (Psalm 140:3). If we are not connecting ourselves with the Lord, we can fall into bad habits with our language. Our words can be so powerful that they can give hope or cause death, teach truth or spread gossip, gently correct or angrily crush feelings, build up or tear down. There are no empty words. All words that come out of your mouth you are accountable for.
You are going to mess up. All of us mess up. I'm so thankful we have a merciful God that forgives our sins. There are a few things you can do to help you in the heat of the moment to keep your speech God honoring:
-- Speak Slowly (James 1:19) When you have such a powerful weapon (your tongue) you must exercise great caution.
-- Speak Truthfully (Eph 4:25) What is just as important as the truth you speak is the attitude with which you speak it. Speak with love.
-- Speak Graciously (Col 4:6) Let your conversation always be full of kindnessComman