Matthew 12:36-37 is a great verse to keep in mind as we prepare to open our mouth. Words are powerful gifts and weapons! The same mouth that can build up and encourage another, can rip someone apart. Words often stay with us for years, as we work mentally to overcome the insensitive words that someone has shared with us. Our inward outlook of who we are, are often shaped by what others say to us. We need to remember and understand that we will eventually give account for the things we say and how we impact those around us. There is a good reason that James tells us in 1:19-20, “… let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath, for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” We need to learn to think before we speak. Is what I have to say necessary, is it spoken in love, is it designed to build up? Learn to evaluate your words before you let them escape your mouth.
