As I roll into Day 3 of Lent, I am pretty overwhelmed with what God is doing in me in just 2 days. He has revealed sin that apparently I had become comfortable with and has pricked my heart for change and Holy Spirit within me is doing some serious exploratory surgery. The truth is this is what I love above Lent and other times of deep spiritual introspection. These times call me to having a spiritual check up, a bit of spring cleaning if you will.
Yesterday I spoke of the nasty that comes out when I am comfortable, and God told me yesterday throughout the day that this was only the beginning. In multiple conversations yesterday, I found myself flirting with the old sin nature as I made what could be considered hurtful jokes about coworkers. They understood I was joking, but the truth is…joking or not, making statements that carry sharp edges hurts people, even if they don’t immediately recognize it. I know for years as a youth, being the butt of even playful jokes took its toll as collectively I began to see myself differently, and more in the light of the “humorous” statements began to develop my identity of insecurity. I did not know at the time, who I was in Jesus.
Through the words of the man known as the wisest man ever, King Solomon, the book of Proverbs says,
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
and those who love it will eat its fruits.” Proverbs 18:21
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Not too long ago I recognized this fault in my interactions with people and worked to course correct, but guess who’s back? So the work is not done. I am so thankful that Jesus has agreed to finish the work He started in me and in all believers. We have HOPE for lasting change, as Jesus’ Spirit doesn’t quit until we are made like Him. #PTL
” And I am sure that God who began the good work within you will keep right on helping you grow in his grace until his task within you is finally finished on that day when Jesus Christ returns.” Philippians 1:6 TLB
That doesn’t mean that I can sit back and wait. I am called to participate in His process. So what does that look like? That looks like me controlling my tongue. Yesterday I was reminded that one of the fruits of the Spirit is self control, so I need to ask for more of His spirit to tame my tongue. Then I need to be aware of my words. I must use them with care. I must treat each word as either a soothing cream to heal, or a sharp sword that kills. I might not see it in that moment, but any words I speak that do not bring life, contribute to bringing death, even if it is simply “Killing Them Softly.”
How do you struggle with taming your tongue? This is actually one side of the double edge sword that is my tongue that I will discuss. Tomorrow I will disclose the other also deadly blade that God calls me to tame. Until then speak with love and bring life. Be blessed and be a blessing.