" WHAT KINDS OF WORDS COME FROM YOUR MOUTH? "

This weeks message is one that will or should truly give us pause.

Why are we so cavalier with our speech? Always remember that what goes in must come out. The Word Of God says: " BUT I TELL YOU THAT EVERY CARELESS WORD THAT PEOPLE SPEAK, THEY SHALL GIVE AN ACCOUNTING FOR IT IN THE DAY OF JUDGMENT. FOR BY YOUR WORDS YOU WILL BE JUSTIFIED, AND BY YOUR WORDS YOU WILL BE CONDEMNED " (Matt 12:36-37).

Jesus reminds us that what we say reveals what is in our hearts. What kinds of words come from your mouth? That is an indication of what your heart is really like. You can't solve your heart problem, however, just by cleaning up your speech. Though it is a move in the right direction. You must allow the Holy Spirit to fill you with new attitudes and motives; then your speech will be cleansed at its source. "

But he answered and said, 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God'. " Jesus was able to resist all of the devils temptations because He not only knew Scripture, but He also obeyed it. Ephesians 6:17 says that God's word is a sword to use in spiritual combat. Knowing Bible verses is an important step in helping us resist the devil's attacks, but we must also obey the bible.

Note that Satan had memorized scripture, but he failed to obey it. Knowing and obeying the bible helps us follow God's desires rather than the devil's. Would you change the way you live if you knew that every word and thought would be examined by God first? David asks that God approve his words and thoughts as though they were offerings brought to the altar.

As you begin each day, determine that God's love will guide what you say and how you think. Harsh words always seem to stir up anger. Have you ever tried to argue in a whisper? It is equally hard to argue with someone who insists on answering gently. On the other hand, a rising voice and harsh words almost always trigger an angry response. Now, to turn away wrath and seek peace, choose gentle words.

LAST POINT: Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear (Ephesian 4:29).

Until Next Time...
Jim,