Profanity...
Swearing...
Cussing...
My mother used to describe any disrespectful language as having a "potty-mouth". All household members knew this toilet talk had it's consequences in our home. Since I was the third child, I have to admit, I saw a few of my siblings get their mouth washed out with soap. Did I learn from their example? No... I had to discover the distaste for disrespect on my own.
It certainly was a tasteful reminder of what not to say in our home. James is reminding all believers of the same thing...
We have only a few verses left in our Prison Series on James: "Persevering With Purpose." This week we are taking only one verse and really "sudsing" up in it.
But above all, my brothers,
do not swear,
either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath,
but let your "yes" be your yes
and
your "no" be no,
so that you may not fall under condemnation. James 5:12
Prison inmates are fully aware of the consequences of their actions, many have issues with their language. Is prison language any different than at the corner gas station or the privacy of one's home?
James is writing this to all of us, to encourage us to "persevere" as believers. To rise-up and not only let our works reflect our faith in Christ, but our language is to be shown as trustworthy and honorable as well.
Are you tired of a lifetime of anger and swearing? Is your go-to knee jerk reaction to bully others around with your mouth to get your way? It's not too late... don't let pride get in the way.
- Find you knees, bow down and repent.
- Ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit.
- Let God's Words become your words and your heart's integrity will be evident.
- Go to those you have hurt with your words and humbly ask for forgiveness.
- Practice, practice, practice self-control (If you fail, start again with number one.)
I have recently felt first-hand how someone's hurtful,
raging words can destroy a relationship.
I have also witnessed how our own words of
love and mercy can lift someone up
from a pit of darkness into the light of God's grace.
But above all...
let's say "YES" to choosing a language that is trustworthy and honorable.
