CHOOSING YOUR WORDS

About a month ago, I received a call from Ed at WMPC, the radio ministry of Calvary Bible Church in Lapeer. They asked if I would be interested in recording 5 or 6 “Pastor’s Minutes.” Though they should be recorded by the time you read this, I’m sure it will be a challenge. A “Pastor’s Minute” is comprised of about 10 seconds of introduction and then 50 seconds that are mine. When you only have 50 seconds to say something meaningful, you have to choose your words carefully. I had to edit and re-edit what I plan to say, cut some comments, and rephrase other things to save precious seconds. Each word mattered.

Today, we live in a culture where people feel free to say anything they want to say, without filtering it or considering the implications. How many times have you been in a public place where there are children and heard someone swear without concern for the kids? Another dangerous trend is the idea of “venting.” Instead of controlling their tongues, some people speak their minds without thinking and “let it fly.” And, I’m not just talking about non-Christians here. While many Christians do not swear, many feel free to “speak their mind,” when they should be biting their tongues and considering the impact their words could have on others and on their own testimonies. I wonder how many people have left the Church (or a church) because of careless words spoken by Christians — the number is not insignificant. Words can hurt people deeply.

So, today’s encouragement and exhortation is to choose your words carefully. Consider how they might impact others. Filter what you say and discern whether it is Christ-honoring. If it’s not, don’t say it! Consider the following verses, which were written to Christians!

James 1:26 If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless.

James 3:6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell.

1 Peter 3:10 For "Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; (ESV)

Finally, “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt…” (Col 4:6) so that people can see Christ in what you do and don’t say!

In His grip,
Pastor Decker