Control of Tongue
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians 4:29)
If we rewind a few years back, information was spread by word of mouth and having witnessed around. But now, fast forward a few years, information is spread from every four corners. With social media being the most used outlet in terms of information distribution, misunderstanding happens too often. Let’s not blame social media and the web because these misunderstandings happen among friends and family as well. All of which can lead to gossip.
We've all been witnessed to gossip and misunderstanding of words in our life. Whether you were the one spreading the information or whether you were witnessing someone spreading it. In both cases, we know that every action we make in our daily lives have consequences and repercussions. Though actions results can be both good and bad, the consequences of gossiping lead to no other than destruction and trouble.
The Lord’s creation isn't no coincidence. Everything he does from beginning to end has a purpose. We may not know what it is at first, but it is there for us to figure it out. We were born with two ears and one mouth. In the book of Proverbs 10:19, it is written "A person who talks too much gets into trouble. A wise person learns to be quiet." Now this proverb isn't saying to not speak and just listen to what is given. But rather to listen when something is said to listen and not just to respond or flip the narrative. In addition, to speak the truth and only the truth in times where you may not have all the information at hand.
Take a moment this week to reflect on how you use your words and ears on a daily basis. Do you often find yourself listening to listen or listening to respond? Or do you find yourself sharing information without all the facts? Remember that in life everything can be destroyed from nature to homes to humans expect for your words. Your words will live forever.