THROUGH THE BIBLE IN THREE YEARS
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The church gossip was always telling things about other people. Most folk did the right thing and ignored, but some were really concerned about the problem.
However, one new member resolved the problem quite quickly. She had seen Frank's car parked at a bar one evening (he'd had car trouble and left it there). The next Sunday she approached him while he was talking to some of his friends, and said, "Frank, you should be ashamed. I saw your car parked by that bar."
Frank said nothing, he just nodded. That evening his car was parked next to her driveway, and he left it there all night!
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Proverbs 21:22-24
22 A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof. 23 Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles. 24 Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.
KJV
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All three of these verses seem to apply to the use of the tongue.
He is a wise warrior who secretly scales the walls of a city, finds the place of power, and destroys it FIRST. A man is wise when he uses his tongue discretely, and privately in kindness draws attention to his foe's error. This "disarms" the foe, but leaves room for him to become a friend.
The man who keeps a "tight reign" on his tongue will make many friends.
The man who speaks in anger and pride will find that "proud wrath" is returned to him. Sharp words shows a man to be UNfriendly, and he will usually be treated in an unfriendly manner.
Let us remember to THINK before we speak, and then speak so that our conversation exhibits Christ in us.
Love ya,
Bruce
mcge3582@bellsouth.net
http://www.linktojesus.org
Every man should call a spade a spade, even when he trips over one!