“The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” Proverbs 18:21 (NLT)
As I read this verse today I was moved to remember the various situations where this applied in my life.
The Lord convicted me? I am not sure. What I am sure of, is our words are like gifts to those who listen. We can build someone up with what we say. Affirming them for their goodness, their faithfulness, their kindness. Or we can criticise them, with unkind ways to hurt their heart. I often find myself saying ‘life is too short for this nonsense’ and really that is a Truth.
Life is indeed too short for offenses to ruin relationships.
God takes our offenses and erases them, forgives them.
“I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you.” Isaiah 44:22
another version says it like this: “I have swept away your sins like a cloud. I have scattered your offenses like the morning mist. Oh, return to me, for I have paid the price to set you free.”
We can be free from unkind ways. It is our choice.
As the verse says… those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Do we want them to be positive, encouraging and life giving? Or do want the consequences to hurt someone and kill their spirit.
I challenge us today, to think. To stop. To ask ourselves as we share with others. Is this positive? Is this good? Is this true? is there any benefit for them to hear this or know this?
We all need to challenge each other to be kind, gentle and compassionate.
Does this mean every morning, every day we must evaluate our heart and test our motives? I challenge us to think on these thoughts.
Lord, continue to show us ways we can grow deeper in relationships with you and with others. Help us to be wise.
