The Battles Women FaceParaugs

The Battles Women Face: Words

Have you ever felt a pit in your stomach after you’ve shared something you shouldn’t have… or said something too quickly?

Gossip often feels good because it can be pleasant to hear or share. Often, we even feel a sense of momentary satisfaction when speaking maliciously, talking sarcastically or giving a rude comment. In the Christian community, it is easy to gossip under the umbrella of sharing to pray. It doesn’t take much to spread hurtful words.

However, if our conscience pricks us in our spirit, we feel regret and shame. Today’s passages remind us that our words actually expose our heart. Where is your heart?

It is difficult to undo the damage of gossip or a hurtful word, but there are ways we can prevent making this mistake and ways to fix the damage if it’s already been done.

Here are some practical ways to watch our words:

• Slow Down: Think before your speak. The Bible has much to say about guarding our lips and speaking rashly.
• Talk Less: The Bible advises us to avoid people who gossip and says that we are considered wise when we hold our tongue. We can save ourselves a lot of embarrassment and regret when we know how to be quiet. Sometimes listening is more valuable than talking.
• Damage Control: What do you do when your words have hurt someone? Humble yourself and ask for forgiveness. You release yourself from being imprisoned by your own words. Don’t wait too long. The sooner you deal with the hurt caused by those words, the sooner you will free yourself.
• Hide God’s Word in your Heart: Having disciplined quiet time with God allows you to stay in tune with His Word. God deposits his wisdom in you so that you can avoid gossip and be an encouragement through your words.

The next time you are tempted to share some juicy details with someone, ask yourself: Is it kind? Is it helpful? Is it necessary? If the answer is no, then it is safer to stay silent regarding the matter.

Our words expose our heart. May our lips speak truth and kindness to those around us so that others can see the Christ who rules our heart.