The Set-Up (part 1)
Growing up our family liked to play games: the Alphabet Game and Trivial Pursuit are two I remember the most. Everyone would squeeze in around the table: gram, gramps, uncles, aunts, cousins, whoever was in the mind to be a part. During a spirited game of Trivial Pursuit the question was: “What is the strongest muscle iwwn your body?” Do you know the answer? The answer surprised me. The strongest muscle in your body is your tongue!
Science aside, think about the power we have through what we say:
* God created everything by speaking. (Genesis 1)
* We can tear down ourselves, our dreams and the people we are called to love and point to Jesus.
* We can build up and nurture ourselves, our dreams and those same people.
* We can build a wall and bring division.
* We can build a bridge and bring understanding, compassion and unity.
People have made careers out of being snarky, judgy and mean. I used to have quite a sharp tongue. I used to be proud of how to destroy someone with just a few words. It was my super power, how I defended myself. I also used my words on myself a lot. THEN Jesus! He changed my heart and in doing so, changed my words.
After having to apologize a million times for something I said, I learned to keep my mouth shut (even if my mind is thinking it). As a younger Christ-follower, I rationalized it’s better to only have to ask God to forgive me, then having to go to the person. Because, honestly that person was annoying me or said something to me, so going to ask for their forgiveness was like swallowing swords. Who wants to do that?!?!
As I grew in my relationship with God, I learned how impactful our words are and I wanted to make God proud of how I use my words, lift others up, introduce Jesus and bring God glory. He is continually showing me how I speak matters; how I can honor or dishonor with my words.
God takes how we speak very seriously:
“I said. ‘I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth…’”
Psalm 39:1
“If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight reign on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.” James 1:26
“He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.” Proverbs 13:3
“He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself away from calamity.” Proverbs 21:23
Just a few to start the conversation. ;) There is a lot more…feel free to add onto it.
So, the question is how are we using the strongest muscle in our body? Does God have the freedom in our lives to address how we speak to/about ourselves and others?
Things to remember about who we are speaking to:
* You are made in the image of God and He said you are good! (translation: muchness good!)
* Everyone you meet is made in the image of God and He says they are good. (even the ones who annoy or hurt us)
“Father, help us to speak words of life to ourselves and to others; not to diminish but lift up. May our words bring healing, love and grace to situations. Amen!”
One more thought, well, actually two: everyone has so much to say about everything. You can’t do anything without hearing an opinion. We need to be careful who is speaking words over us and impacting our lives. Also, what if we listened more? What if we just shut our mouths, stopped thinking about our next rebuttal and listened? What would change in our lives, relationships and world?!?!
I hope you have an amazing day! You are loved and seen by the One who speaks truth and love over you.
All My Love ~
Jodi xoxo
I love the Olympics! I have since I was a kid. I would “skate” in my socks during the winter games and tumble all over the living room during the summer ones. The pageantry, the nail biting finishes, the stories of the athletes, how they support each other, how the world comes together…all of it.
Hence the name and picture. ;) We have a volleyball theme, so make sure you come back. Next week will be part 2:
“The Block.”
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