James tells us that the source of ruin in our relationships is often a very different kind of fire. He wrote, “The tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body” (James 3:6). Those strong words remind us how damaging unguarded words can be to those around us.
Think before you speak!
Always be mindful of what you say, for your words are nothing but a reflection of your heart.
Paul reminds us that as followers of Jesus, our lives are like letters “known and read by all men; . . . an epistle of Christ . . . written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God” (2 Cor. 3:2-3). What is the story that those around us are reading through the letter of our lives? Stories of forgiveness? Compassion? Generosity? Patience? Love? If you’ve experienced the joy of a grace-filled life that comes from the Spirit of God in you, then welcome to the joy of being one of God’s great storytellers!
Help me, dear Lord, to be honest and true. In all that I say and all that I do; Give me the courage to do what is right to bring to the world a glimpse of Your light.
Remember, love and friendship don’t hurt. Lying, cheating and screwing with people's feelings and emotions hurts. Never mess with someone's feelings just because you're unsure of yours. Always be open and honest.
Your word is your honor. If you say you're going to do something, then you need to do it.