Foolish words

Whether it is a politician accidentally talking into a "live" microphone, a parent berating a troubled child, or a boss haranguing fearful subordinates, how often have we heard a speaker blurt out a thoughtless or rash statement without considering the feelings and sensitivities of the hearers?

"That was an awful thing to say," we may think, and our impression of the person is diminished. Even if the speaker made some good points, his thoughtlessness will crowd out anything beneficial from the communication, as his listeners focus on their hurt or anger and become resistant to his message.

As we look into the mirror of self-examination, we might ask ourselves, "Do my words build up and encourage those who hear me, or do they tear down and discourage?"

God has much to say about choosing our words carefully. "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear" (Proverbs 25:11-12).

"Know your audience" is the first principle of communication. "Think before you speak" is the second. Have we ever been hurt by an off-handed comment, made by someone who did not understand our background or our circumstances? How often have we hurt others when we said something in haste? Even wise King David asked God for help in speaking carefully: "Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips" (Psalm 141:3).

Leaders are especially responsible for choosing their words carefully. What others hear them say will build up or tear down the people who look to them for guidance and example. "The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, and adds learning to his lips. Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones" (Proverbs 16:23-24).

Most of us say too much. Especially if we speak in anger, our many words can bring us much trouble. "He who has knowledge spares his words, and a man of understanding is of a calm spirit. Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive" (Proverbs 17:27-28).

People often "tune out" the man or woman who is always blabbing about something or other. By contrast, we pay attention to those who choose their words wisely. When we think before we speak, we save ourselves a world of grief. "Do you see a man hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him" (Proverbs 29:20).

As the saying goes, "Put your brain in gear, before your mouth is in motion." God gave each of us two ears, and only one mouth. We should take the hint, and listen more than we speak. "Do not be rash with your mouth, and let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven and you on earth; therefore let your words be few" (Ecclesiastes 5:2).

We should all be careful about what we say, but teachers and preachers carry a special responsibility to watch their words. God has a warning for those in such positions. "My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment. For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body" (James 3:1-2).

We will all be held accountable for our words, whether written or spoken (Matt 12:36-37). "Even so, the tongue is a little member and boasts great things" (James 3:5). Christians have the great gift of God's Holy Spirit to help them be careful of their words.

If you would like to have this gift working for you, read our booklet, Christian Baptism. Learn what God's Word can do in your life!