“Don't use a big word when a singularly unloquacious and diminutive linguistic expression will satisfactorily accomplish the contemporary necessity.” We smile at such a statement because it violates the very principle it is trying to promote. But it also highlights a struggle that we all face -- the temptation to misuse our words. Here are some examples from the book of Proverbs:
We can misuse our words by flattering others for sinful purposes. To flatter someone means to use insincere praise and compliments to further your own personal interests. The father in Proverbs 2 encourages his son to seek wisdom and understanding because there are those in the world, like the adulteress, who seek to lead him astray with her words. He cautions against “...the strange woman, from the adulteress who flatters with her words; that leaves the companion of her youth and forgets the covenant of her God…” (Proverbs 2:16-17).
We misuse our words when we speak in destructive ways. “A worthless man digs up evil, while his words are like scorching fire” (Proverbs 16:27). Our words have the power to build someone up or to tear someone down. The outcome depends on how we use our words. Destructive words are like a raging forest fire that ravages a community, wreaking havoc in the precious souls around us.
We misuse our words when we speak too quickly. “Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him” (Proverbs 29:20). It’s easy to blurt some words out before taking time to think about them. It may be easy but it’s also foolish. The problem with hastily spoken words is that they cannot be unspoken. Even if we wish we had held our tongue, the damage is already done.
Perhaps our prayer should be the prayer of the Psalmist: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer” (Psalm 10:14).
God loves you!
Mike
No comments:
Post a Comment