Pauses for Lent Day 10
Pauses for Lent by Trevor Hudson Day 10
Day 10 Word: WORDS
Scripture: “I tell you, on the day of judgment you will have to give an account for every careless word you utter.” Matthew 12:36
Words carry much spiritual power. They wound and heal. They break down and build up. They discourage and encourage. Jesus places eternal value on them when he says we will be judged by the words we have spoken.
We dare not underestimate the damage that harmful words cause. They can destroy confidence, tarnish reputations, spread rumors, split families, divided communities, and spark wars.
In contrast, helpful words of love and appreciation have the potential to bring blessing and life. They can make God’s love real for those around us. During Lent, let’s think carefully about how we speak to others.
Comments from Marie: Other translations for “careless words” include “idle words” (KJB, KJV) and “empty words” (NIV). The use of these words, this language, is described as talk we clearly need not say. Be careful of what we say. Be intentional, be mindful of how we talk and ask God for help. Please share your thoughts on today’s word.
Day 10 Word: WORDS
Scripture: “I tell you, on the day of judgment you will have to give an account for every careless word you utter.” Matthew 12:36
Words carry much spiritual power. They wound and heal. They break down and build up. They discourage and encourage. Jesus places eternal value on them when he says we will be judged by the words we have spoken.
We dare not underestimate the damage that harmful words cause. They can destroy confidence, tarnish reputations, spread rumors, split families, divided communities, and spark wars.
In contrast, helpful words of love and appreciation have the potential to bring blessing and life. They can make God’s love real for those around us. During Lent, let’s think carefully about how we speak to others.
Comments from Marie: Other translations for “careless words” include “idle words” (KJB, KJV) and “empty words” (NIV). The use of these words, this language, is described as talk we clearly need not say. Be careful of what we say. Be intentional, be mindful of how we talk and ask God for help. Please share your thoughts on today’s word.
2 Comments
How many times have we said something that we wish we could take back. I try to be thoughtful and careful to what I say. It is important to think before we speak.
When I was growing up, I was often reminded to "engage my brain" before opening my mouth. This was my Dad's way of telling me to be careful with what I said. There were too many times when I didn't follow that advice and hurt someone's feelings.