Quiet Contemplation - Day 29

Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

            While it may be true that the above verse is primarily a warning against foul or abusive language (see NLT version); once again, I think the emphasis should be place on the latter half of the verse. I think I’m the world’s worst at putting my foot in my mouth unintentionally—and it’s not even just when I’m talking. I can even manage to put my foot in my mouth by tapping “like” on Facebook before I truly think things through and see things from the perspective of others. And just for the record, in case you haven’t guessed by now, sometimes I write devotionals that I need to pay attention to myself and not just for others.

            The more I reflect on this topic, the more I realize that speech doesn’t necessarily have to be foul or abusive in order to hurt others. Sometimes, it’s just speaking too soon, or too quickly without thinking things through that is worse. So for this reason, I am going to challenge myself to stop, slow down, think before I speak, and ask myself: “Will what I say (or what I ‘like’ on FB) help  others?” “Will it benefit those who hear (or see) it?”

Ecclesiastes 5:2 (NIV)

Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.

           

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Thank you, I needed this today. Forgive me for speaking or acting in haste. Guide me in learning how to make everything I say or do be pleasing in your sight, dear Lord.

            In Christ’s name I pray, Amen.

Respectfully written and submitted by

Dotty Willmon, Resurrection Christian—looking for the blessed hope of Christ’s return!