Lois's Writing

THE WORDS OF OUR MOUTH

PSALM 19:12-14

 Our voices can be tools for great good:  we can talk to our heavenly Father on behalf of ourselves and others; we can speak the truth of Jesus Christ and sing praises to Him; we can train, motivate, encourage, and warn; and we can express loving devotion to one another.

However, our voices also have the power to injure.  It often starts out with something small-- a comment regarding a brief conversation about an acquaintance can snowball, causing unforeseen damage.  At times, we may express our opinion in a critical way("Did you see how he...?") or out of curiosity, as a question that elicits the negative ("Do you know why she...?")  Our questions and comments may sow seeds of doubt and distrust that can hurt another person's reputation. Another word for such observations is "gossip."

God has strong words to say about gossips.  They separate close friends, betray confidence, and stir dissension.  Most alarming of all, in the eyes of God, a gossip's traveling companions are the unrighteous, wicked , greedy slanderers, and haters of God. (Romans 1:29-30) God takes our words seriously.

Ask the Holy Spirit to guide  you into the truth about your words.  Receive the truth and let it transform any heart attitudes that might be prompting gossip. "For the mouth speaks out of that which fill the heart (Matthew 12:34)." Be one who protects the reputation of others, including family, coworkers, and believers.

Be a blessing with your words.

L. J.