During the month of June we are going to be undertaking a study of some famous last words uttered by heros of the faith. We will explore the last words of Moses, Stephen, Paul, and Jesus! It will be incredibly exciting to discover how these words captured the lives of these heroes and how they could become words that give our lives meaning and clarity. Words are so powerful.
James 3:10 NLT And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right!
Bad Words…
We should mind our words. We often discount their impact not realizing that our words often shape the thoughts, and then the lives, of others. We should always remember that because the world is corrupted by sin, it will always be easier to speak “bad words”.
Isn’t it just natural to complain when something happens that makes us uncomfortable, or when we don’t understand the actions of others. It is also normal to immediately see the worst of a situation, or hear the worst of an event. It is so easy to criticize, but it is hard work to understand. It is even more difficult to be patient and wait to see what a matter is really about.
But do you realize this is part of your new life in Christ? As believers we can no longer make the excuse, “Well… I just can’t help it. That’s just the way I am.” Consider this admonition from Paul. It plainly warns us that we are responsible for what we say and have the power to change because of Jesus Christ has done for us.
Colossians 3:8 NLT But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language.
Good Words…
Proverbs 12:18 NLT Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.
What if we changed our words? What if we eliminated the complaining and criticism? Impossible? If you were an ordinary person without an extraordinary God I would agree, but you are not. You and I, we are the sons and daughters of the Most High God. He doesn’t just love us and send us long letters (aka the Bible). He also has come to live inside of us. We don’t have to live at the mercy of our own toxic thoughts another day.
What would our homes be like if we withdraw from the cacophony of harmful words that rain upon our children and spouses everyday? What if we spotted and proclaimed the “gold” in people rather than gripe about the dirt?
I don’t know about you, but I need to work on this. In life many things happen to us. Many of those things are painful and harmful in physical, emotional, and spiritual ways. And they tend to succeed in pulling us into the chaos of the rat race joining our critical voices with those of everyone else. But, we are meant to be free. And real freedom, is the freedom to speak hope, healing, and a future.
Have a Great Summer! And, don’t forget to have lots of faith conversations with your kids and friends.