Words depict the canvas of our soul. We must take inventory of what we say and how we say it. What we believe and say does matter. It reflects what is in our minds and hearts. Words can lift one up or tear one down; influence others for better or worst. Our words have power to do good or bad.
Ironically, it seems as though every day, we’re bombarded by other people’s words. As technology and social media platforms have progressed, it’s easier now than ever to share what’s on our minds, promote companies, communicate and more. Think about it, how many times have you heard slogans such as “Just Do It,” “Think Differently,” “America Runs on Dunkin” or “Like a Good Neighbor, State Farm Is There”?
We have the ability to reach more people now than ever before. Though there are many advantages to using social media and technology, there are also many disadvantages. By allowing all people to share information on the web, it has become difficult to decipher what is “real” news and what is “fake.” And it’s not uncommon to be a spectator, participant or victim in a war of words online.
Have you ever said something that took you by surprise? I have. If your heart is filled with hate or anger, your words will show it. Similarly, your words will reflect love and grace if you speak with kindness and compassion.
In teaching about what people say, Jesus said, “A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.” Although we must watch what we say, more importantly we must guard our heart as we speak from it. How can we guard our hearts? Please share with us.
Lord, teach me to guard my heart and words.
