2014-03-20 - Chose Your Words

James 1:26 If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man’s religion is worthless.

I know a precious few people who are what I would call wordsmiths. They have an excellent command of language. In one case the person has command of two languages. They don't chose a word that works, or is good enough. They chose exactly the word that best fits the need to communicate with accuracy.

An opposing character is described in the verse above. They do not contain their undue anger and will devalue themselves with rough speech. I was once told that a person who could not express themselves without cursing needed to rethink what they were saying. If they would not they were not worthy of being heard.

Our words are a choice. They are a part of how we present ourselves. It is also a reflection on our families and friends, and more. We who believe that Jesus Christ is Lord are called Ambassadors. We represent His kingdom to those around us. The world will say they are not watching and that they have no interest in our faith - but they are watching. I am more aware all the time of what image I present. Being more and more aware of my human frailty provides a better mindset for what words are chosen.

Do we devalue our faith with the words we chose?

Col 4:6 Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.

Grace & Peace,
Mike

jmhoskins@gmail.com
http://www.cfdevotionals.org
http://www.redcross.org

All verses are from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.