Monday, August 9, 2010

Reckless Words

Out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.

A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.

Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only what is good to build others up that it may benefit those who listen.

Convicted yet? I was. Multiple times.

These pointed verses pricked my heart as I sat with friends in a Vacation Bible School class for moms. I realized I am very good at making excuses: what I said was truth, she/he needed to hear it, I just need to vent to someone. God doesn't give wiggle room for these lame excuses to fit. What I say is a direct relation to my thoughts, intentions, and emotions. When I stop and think that my speech is an overflow of my heart, my words should change. It doesn't become all about me and my needs, but reorients to what will build someone else up and benefit them. Oh, that is so hard. Does anyone else feel the same way?

My words have purpose. God has blessed me with five beautiful treasures in my home. Do my words make these treasures shine or do they corrupt?

Today, my family loaded up the van, packed a lunch, and headed to a lake to play. The beach wasn't crowded, but other families were enjoying the sun as well. I couldn't help but listen to other moms. Can I say, there were some reckless words thrown at children today. What did my words sound like? Was I legitimately building my kids up? Were my words beneficial?

These convicting verses will always be a challenge for me. I am thankful for a gracious, forgiving God who has promised to continue to work in my life.

5 comments:

monica @ paperbridges said...

totally agree. we need to watch what we say to our kiddos and hubbys too, for that matter. it's amazing what we moms learn at VBS. :)

Unknown said...

What a great reminder. Thank you for this.

Traci Michele said...

It's nice to meet you! Found you over at (in) courage. I blog over at Ordinary Inspirations: http://www.ordinaryinspirations.blogspot.com

Ruthie said...

Thanks for stopping by my blog! And thank you for this convicting post! Oi, I know that my goal is to always speak to my husband and children with grace, patience and love. But I fail SO often, of course not when others are around, just in privacy when I'm at my whit's end - not a good excuse though!!! Have a blessed evening!

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