God tends to let my rebuking also be supplemented with what I ought to be doing, so it came as no surprise when Jeff said this about words last Sunday:
"Is it true, (I usually don't spread lies)
is it necessary, (but I rarely consider if it's necessary)
is it loving?" (and if either of the other two are flawed it becomes unloving)
These verses have come to mind the last few weeks. It seems like such an easy thing...to watch what I say, but it's really not. I am reminded again of my need for Jesus and his cleansing blood...otherwise I would already be doomed by something as small as my tongue.
James 1:26
26 If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. **OUCH**
From James 3
4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts.
9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?
