(by pastor Norman)

How often do we stop and check our conversations? Jesus said, “But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matt 12:36-37; NKJV). Wow! However you read that verse above the message is clear, watch your conversation! Let’s look into this a little further. James, the brother of Jesus, encourages us to focus on hearing, to take time before we speak and to restrain anger (James 1:19). King Solomon made it very clear that, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Prov 18:21; NKJV) and “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” (Prov 25:11; NKJV). In all our conversations we should seek to bring God’s grace and build others up (Eph 4:29b). We are never to speak badly of brothers and sisters (James 4:11, Titus 3:2), our conversation should be fair, non-abrasive, gentle and tempered by humility whilst bringing peace. “A gentle tongue (with its healing power) is a tree of life (Prov 15:4; AMP). We should always speak truth in a spirit of love (Eph 4:15); words that are acceptable to God (Ps 19:14). As a final thought we should remember that Jesus made it clear that our words reflect what is in our heart (Matt 15:18-19). Hmm, a thought to remember.