Careless Words

Thursday, October 29, 2015
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Listen while you read: "Open My Eyes That I May See"1 (Lyrics)

Matthew 12:36-37 – I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. (ESV)

During the recent Canadian federal election, several candidates were forced to withdraw after comments they had made on social media surfaced. These comments, which were thoughtless, ill-considered, and sometimes offensive and hateful, were probably dashed off quickly without any thought that they would be uncovered by journalists and political rivals. Careless words indeed! For these words, the candidates were roundly condemned.

These instances remind me of times when I have spoken or written careless words that I wish I could take back, words that have embarrassed or hurt others or reflected badly on my Christian faith. It is sobering to think that I will someday have to give account for these words and trust for the forgiveness of our Lord.

Before we speak or push the "Send" or "Enter" button on the computer, let's think carefully about what we are saying and how the words reflect on ourselves and others. Let's follow the counsel of the apostle Paul, who said:

Ephesians 4:29 – Do not let unwholesome talk come of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (NIV)

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of words and the ability to communicate with You and with those we love. Help us to speak and write carefully, not carelessly, so that our words may build others up and glorify Your name. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Richard Frith <richard111@hotmail.com>
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

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1 Comment

  • PresbyCan Feedback says:

    A good word!


    Good advice Richard.


    Great advice indeed!


    Thanks. This was very good.


    Be Careful of your Tongue. Its wet and slips easily.


    May the words from my mouth and the meditations of my heart always be praise for God. Amen.


    I learned long ago that it is not always a good idea to say something even if it is true. I think what you wrote is so true especially now.
    (B.C.)


    Thank you for today’s devotional Richard. We also need to be cognizant of our “idle silence” as in the very appropriate “Thought For Today”…for it is, as Brigitte Gabriel said in her speech….”The peaceful majority are irrelevant”.


    Dear Richard:
    I’m certainly with you on this wholeheartedly. It is sobering indeed. I always have to pray that God guides my thoughts as well as my words.
    Thanks for writing so wisely.
    God bless you.


    Good words! Thank you.


    Thanks Richard for the reflection to be careful of what we write or say.
    (Ghana)

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