Our faith in God’s faithfulness
allows us to trust that God knows exactly what He is doing, even if we do not
understand His ways, which are so much wiser and deeper than our methods of
thinking (Isaiah 55:8-9). When we stoop to entertain negative thoughts and words,
we allow Satan to use us. For instance, God considers
gossip as detrimental to us as lying, cursing and wrath.
Gossiping stirs up strife and starts a
firestorm of controversy, whether purposely or accidentally. Tidbits of gossip
are sweet to the talebearer’s lips, but they strike to the very heart of the
unfortunate victim’s soul (Proverbs 26:20-22). The longer the tale is told, the more vicious and
debilitating it becomes. If we refrain from gossiping, however, we quench the
fires of contention and prevent arguments.
God advises us to put off our old self and
to allow His Spirit to renew our character into the image of our creator (Colossians 3:5-10). We listen to gossip with our ears,
but it effects our emotions and self-esteem as well. Lies will create shame,
distrust and fear in our soul. Satan convinces us that we are “not enough”,
cripples us with self-doubt and debilitates, confuses and discourages us.
Therefore, it is important that we limit
the words that enter and leave our mind and speak only graceful words that
encourage others. Otherwise, we grieve God’s Spirit and wound our own soul and
the soul of those in our life (Ephesians 4:29-30). God’s Word encourages us to stop entertaining bitterness,
anger, dissension and slander; and instead, to be kind, forgiving and loving
toward one another (Ephesians 4:31-32).
God’s love gives us affection
for others, His joy births in us an exuberance for life, His peace permeates in
us a deep serenity, His patience develops perseverance, His gentleness causes
our heart to blossom with compassion and His goodness permits kindness to pervade
our entire being. His meekness gives us the humility to live as a servant. His
self-control helps us to be guided by His Spirit.
Prayer:
Father
God, You forgave us and released us from the debt of sin we owed. This allows us to live by Your Spirit and to do
the works, which You called us to do (Ephesians
2:10). Remind us that our tongue has the power of life and death in it (Proverbs 18:21).Your Spirit
imparts His fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, meekness, goodness,
self-control and faith into our life, so that You can use us for Your
glory.
Thought for the Day:
Words have an impact on our soul and
influence our attitude, feelings and demeanor.
