MARCH 14, 2010

WORDS THAT WOUND THE HEART

PART 3

Scripture Reading- Proverbs 18:8

"The words of a talebearer are as wounds,

and they go down into the innermost

parts of the belly."

Some words stay with us for a long time, perhaps even a lifetime, because of the wound they inflict on the heart. Many speak like a loose cannon without regard for appropriateness, timing, or kindness. Though they speak the truth, sometimes the truth is neither helpful nor necessary and shouldn't be spoken at all.

Sadly, our families often receive the brunt of our careless words. My wife's life verse is Psalm 19:14. "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in they sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer." Every believer should pray this prayer. God's Word clearly warns against careless speaking. ( See Prov. 10:19, 13:3, 15:2, 17:27, 21:23, 29:11; and Ecc. 5:2-3. ) Take time to read these instructive and convicting verses.

The Lord will hold us accountable for careless words. "But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment" ( Matt. 12:36 ). I believe one reason for such stern accountability is because of how damaging careless words can be.

Angry words wound us. Words and anger are often linked in God's Word ( see Gen. 30:1-2; 1 Sam. 17:28; 2 Sam. 12:5; Luke 15:28-29; and James 1:19 ). When we're angry, we don't realize the volume and intensity of our voices, words, and tones. Regrettably, we often fail to realize how deeply we've hurt those to whom we've spoken in anger.

Destructive words wound us. Some words lead to destruction ( Prov. 18:7 ), but encouraging words should characterize the Christian ( Isa. 50:4; Eph. 2:29 ). We should repent of hurtful words by making restitution and seeking forgiveness. Psalm 141:3 is another appropriate prayer. "Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips."

THINK ABOUT IT: When was a time you spoke carelessly and foolishly

--Rick Johnson--