Bible tells us that
the source of ruin
in our relationships
is often a very different
kind of fire.
It says,
"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.
You can tell a lot about where a persons is at by what they do & don’t say. Luke 6:45— “for the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” Listen for both the silence and words if you want to know if someone is truly with and for you.
Publicly and privately.
Be LESS curious about PEOPLE and MORE curious about IDEAS. :)
The things most people want to know about are usually none of their business.
It's easy to say harsh words, yet so difficult to hear them.
A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. (NLT) -Proverbs 15:1
A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart. (NLT) -Luke 6:45
In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. (NLT) -James 3:5
Why do we disconnect our hearts from our mouths? In actuality, the words we say are a reflection of our heart. If your mind focuses on picky details, comparisons and judgments then, of course, your mouth will pour out words of criticism. But if you revere someone with honor and reverence then naturally, words of respect will follow. Try monitoring your words to get a glimpse of your heart.
Sometimes emotions can get the best of us and cause us to say words we don't truly mean. Or we are charged with emotions and choose words with different implications than we intended. When you get in this state do your best to stabilize and then try to communicate emotions when you can better watch your tongue.
Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble. (NLT) -Proverbs 21:23
Let's not let our uncontrolled tongues negate all that we stand for and who we believe in. Put your effort in holding back your tongue as an effort to improve your self-control.
Maybe you know the saying, "When you point one finger, there are three fingers pointing back to you." When cruel accusations fly, we all need to hear the voice of reason that says, "Look in the mirror, friend. You might just be talking about yourself."
Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut. (NLT) -Proverbs 10:19
Over sharing too much information, failing to consider others' feelings, dominating the conversation, demanding tone, boasting about ourselves, etc. Oh how to count the ways our words can lead to sin! Solomon gives wise advice to anyone who closes their mouths long enough to listen. Be sensible, enough said.
“The first person to speak always seems right until someone comes and asks the right questions.” (Prov. 18:17)
Be careful what you listen to - and be careful what you believe. Before you conclude a matter or pass judgment on anyone, speak to the person concerned. Not every story you hear is true.
-Rev. Richard C. Whitcomb