Your Words Are Important

Note from today’s Bible reading: Matthew 12

It is easy to speak without thinking. Too often we say things we do not mean – or things that should be left unsaid – because we are not being careful with our speech.

When Jesus warned about this, He began by explaining why this was such a problem: “For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart” (Matthew 12:34). What we say is a reflection of what we allow to dwell in our heart. Therefore, any problem with our words is fundamentally a heart problem.

Jesus said, “But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:36-37). Whether or not we stand justified before the Lord will depend – at least in part – by how careful we have been with the words that we use.

Many want to justify telling a “little white lie” or some half-truth to avoid trouble. Too many people flippantly use the Lord’s name in vain or curse anytime they are frustrated, angry, or excited. Many others carelessly speak about spiritual things, but not in a way that is in harmony with the will of God, and end up affirming ideas that are contrary to His will. All of this matters.

So remember that your words are important. We will each give an account to the Lord not only for what we have done but also what we have said. Let us make sure we are careful to speak according to His will and keep our words pure.