What Did You Say?

Psalm 55:21 The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.

Psalm 52:2 Thy tongue devises mischief; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully.`

We live in a world dominated by smooth talkers who proclaim goodness but are corrupt to the core. Jesus warned that many false prophets would come; preaching harmony and love, but they were wolves in sheep's clothing. What about us? Have we presented ourselves as sheep when we know a wolf lives inside?

We’ve all known that person who seemed so cool that butter wouldn’t melt in their mouth, and may have felt privileged to have them in our world…yet, time and life melted away the surface ice and the real person was revealed. The smooth talk becomes harsh and abrasive. Soothing words evolve into wounding razors. Just as a blade cuts deep into flesh, unkind words cut into the heart.

A sacred trust has been entrusted to Christians. That trust is the dignity and feelings of the rest of God's children. We become our neighbor's keeper. It is our duty to love and defend one another. The tongue has enormous power to build up or to tear down. How will we choose to use it?

Ask for God's wisdom and guidance as you make choices in your life. He will expose the darkness of lie and deceit through His holy light. Speak words of comfort and love and encouragement, rather than words which leave others bleeding. We are His mouth on earth, measure your words by the standard which is Christ Jesus.

Lord, grant us a careful and discerning spirit. Make sure we use the common sense You have given us. Protect us from those who would try to take advantage of us and keep us from taking advantage of others. May every word out of our mouths be one that encourages, builds up, or praises. Remove from our hearts the desire to hurt others by our words. Fill our mouths with Your thoughts and words, Lord. Amen.