Fiery Tongues

“If you have nothing good to say, don’t say anything.” I was told that repeatedly as a youngster. Usually it was in response to something I had said, so I must have engaged in sharing gossip, rumours and innuendo-repeatedly. Over the years I have become less talkative, much more comfortable listening than speaking. Maybe I don’t trust what will come out of my mouth.

We all know them. The excellent Sunday school teacher who makes the biblical stories come alive. On Monday, there he is filling everyone in on the juicy tidbits of someone else’s life. Or the church board member, a leader in the congregation, who spews forth a cloud of invectives whenever someone dare cross her up. This ought not be so.

Maybe we don’t appreciate the effect our words have on others. Words can crush spirits, destroy confidence, ruin reputations, even shatter faith. Or maybe, we find disciplining our tongues is as difficult as maintaining a regular exercise program. It is just too hard.

But control it we must. Are we up to the challenge?

Lord, may my words only praise you and build others up. Amen. — DAB