Psalm 19:14 says, “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.” This is a prayer I pray every day, especially before I preach a sermon or have any meeting or conversation with others. I pray that my words would edify and encourage and that my thoughts toward others would be pure and upright. I don’t think people realize how much their words impact others whether negatively or positively. I also don’t think people realize how much their words can affect the Kingdom of God and the furtherance of the Gospel. In an age when it is so easy to hide behind a computer screen and say whatever comes to mind and in an age where people are competing for attention; it is easy to say things that are discouraging to others and harmful to the cause of Christ. The world is watching us. When they see and hear Christians speaking negatively about other Christians and about the church it pushes them away from Christ rather than drawing them to Him. Here are a few questions to consider before we speak or post something online:
- Will my words encourage or discourage?
- Am I speaking the truth in love?
- Who will hear or see what I say?
- Will my words point people to Jesus or turn them away?
- Will my words harm the reputation of another believer or the church?
- Are my words full of complaints?
- How will my words impact the Kingdom of God?
- Are my words truthful? Do I know all the facts?
- Could I be misinformed? Am I spreading misinformation and gossip?
- Are my words and thoughts pleasing to God?
Our words can bring devasting harm without us even realizing it. Our words can also breathe life into others. Be careful about what you say today. Think about the impact of your words before you say them. You can never undo what you say or what you post online. You can never take your words back. Make sure your words point people to Jesus rather than turning them away from Him. Make sure your words are helpful rather than a hinderance. Make sure your words encourage rather than discourage. Make sure your words are pleasing to God.
Pastor Chris Noland 