Title
Our Words Matter
Scripture
But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.
(Matthew 12:36)
Devotional
It is at best unwise and often very dangerous to operate our mouths without engaging our minds. Words broadcast who we are and what we believe. Words alone can make or destroy friendships, marriages, and lives. Words can bring peace or they can cause wars. Words are able to brighten our lives or they can drive us into darkness. Words are what God used to create the universe. He merely spoke and the world was created. Words are simply powerful; and because of their power, we will be held accountable for them. Idle words are careless, lazy, and useless. Any slothful man can mouth insults; but it takes a disciplined mind to speak words of edification. The scripture says, “A fool's voice is known by his many words.” It is for this reason that we should count our words and above all, make our words count.
Thought For The Night
“Talking and eloquence are not the same: to speak, and to speak well, are two things. A fool may talk, but a wise man speaks.” Ben Jonson, Discoveries Made upon Men and Matter
Evening Text
Matthew 12:36: “But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.”
Looking for Answers
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Did God not simply use words to create the universe and all that is in it?
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What is the main metaphor used to describe Christ? Consider John 1:1
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Do your words have fixed meanings or are they vague and ambiguous.
Evening Study Guide
Definition: Words are the barometer of the heart, however trite (idle) or impulsive they may be, every word we speak will be taken into account in the Day of Judgment.
Reference: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer,” Psalm 19:14
Application: The apostle James instructs us so very well, “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak,” James 1:19.