Be Careful What You Say by Ann Elaine Broughton
“Set a guard over my
mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips” (Psalm 141:3 NIV).
Words are very powerful. They can tear a
heart into pieces and ruin lives when used carelessly. Have you been a victim
of words that hurt? Have you spoken
words you wished you could take back? I am sure that none of us are perfect in
this area. But as Christians it is essential to try to measure what we say
wisely. Think before you speak. Is what you are about to say beneficial? Is it
positive? Does it make someone feel better? Is it true?
We need to remember how Jesus responded to
those around Him.
He never quarreled. He
stated the facts calmly, even before those who sought to crucify Him. He showed
patience when his own disciples didn’t understand His purpose and what He would
have to suffer. He even spoke calmly to the Pharisees who were constantly
trying to corner Him to catch Him doing wrong. You see Jesus showed all of us
how we are to behave, and since now He is in us, we too can act and talk like
Him. Too often we don’t really consider
that we have Christ in us and with that, we have at our fingertips, His ability
to change lives through words spoken wisely. But, it takes self control and a willingness
to daily be in communication with the Lord. Prayer is what can help us be
better speakers of the truth of Christ. The Holy Spirit can help us choose
words that uplift other people’s spirits instead of putting them down.
There are people around you who need to hear
words of wisdom. They need to be encouraged to do the right thing. They need to
know that they are chosen by God to do wonderful works for Him. You are the one
who needs to reach out and share uplifting words to those around you.
This week, pray before you speak, think
before you speak, and try to speak only words that are beneficial to those
around you. Words spoken wisely and in love are precious in deed.
Dear Lord,
Help me to choose my words wisely. Help me to
be a good example of you by what I say and do. Help me to build other people up
and not tear anyone down with my words. Let me always remember that words can
change lives forever.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
