Matthew 12:36 is one of the verses that I memorized long ago to help me manage my mouth. Proverbs 15:1 – 2 and James 2:1 – 12 are other passages that deal with my issues as well. Once we say something it is out there. In my experience it comes back.
A few years back I was asked to lead a workshop for a well-known ministry at a well-known conference center. Before the conference one of the leaders asked me to go to dinner with him and one of the other leaders. During the meal he reminded me of something I told him nearly 30 years previously. What I said was true but from the way he shared it, it was clear that what I said had grated at him.
It happened again this morning. One of the men invited a man who is a leader in a Christian organization to join our study. At the beginning he made a comment that I had said something to him, again 30 years ago, that he, half joking – I hope, did not want to hear again. I do not remember the incident. But knowing me, 30 years ago, I probably said it.
I was rebuked, by both of these incidents, albeit 30 years later. It matters what we say and how we say it. People remember. People are important. People are those for whom our Savior died. I need to speak to them with the dignity and honor they deserve as an image bearer of Christ.
I forget that all too often. God is faithful to bring those back to my attention.
It happened again this morning. One of the men invited a man who is a leader in a Christian organization to join our study. At the beginning he made a comment that I had said something to him, again 30 years ago, that he, half joking – I hope, did not want to hear again. I do not remember the incident. But knowing me, 30 years ago, I probably said it.
I was rebuked, by both of these incidents, albeit 30 years later. It matters what we say and how we say it. People remember. People are important. People are those for whom our Savior died. I need to speak to them with the dignity and honor they deserve as an image bearer of Christ.
I forget that all too often. God is faithful to bring those back to my attention.
While I agree somewhat, isn't it also important to forgive? Seems kind of childish to hold onto a grudge over words for 30 years. We're only human and will all fail mightily, no matter how careful we are. So while it's important to always be mindful of our words, it's also important to forgive others their careless words.
ReplyDeleteCould not agree more. I cannot control whether others forgive me. But, you are dead on, I am called to forgive them.
DeleteGood thought. Thanks for taking the time to share it.