Think a Minute:
One of my favorite movies ever is “The Princess Bride.” It is a classic tale of heroism, good vs. evil, magic and happy endings. My favorite scene in the movie is when Vincini, the evil kidnapper uses the word, “Inconceivable” too many times in his conversations and Indigo, the Spanish heroic Sword fighter says to him, “You use that word alot…I don’t think it means what you think it means.” You have to watch the movie to get the gist of the humor of that scene, but it does make a valid point. Sometimes, the words we use can be mis-construed and give people other impressions. It is so important to remember that words are so very powerful. Have you ever said something to someone and they took it the wrong way? They were offended or even hurt? It has happened to me plenty of times! Then I feel badly because I didn’t mean to communicate it they way they perceived it. I think that’s why there are verses in the Bible for us to be mindful of like Proverbs 39:1 which says, “…guard my mouth as with a muzzle…” or “…the one who guards his mouth preserves his life;”. Here is another verse in the book of James, chapter 2: “…So also the tongue is a small part of the body, ,and yet is boasts of great things…behold, how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire!”
My friends, be careful what you say and how you say it to others. There’s nothing wrong with being truthful, but speak the truth in love. Also, choose your words wisely, make sure they communicate what you are trying to say to the other person. Ask God to help you always speak wise, compassionate and kind words to others, even if you must be firm. Be careful what you say…it may come back to you! If the peace of Christ rules in your heart, you will find your words will have comfort and wisdom for others. Amen and Amen! – Pastor Rob Pesola