Words Matter: Old Dirt

 How would you like to be reminded of something that happened fifty years ago? Recently, a lady called me to tell me about something that she had heard that happened fifty years ago. After the call, I wondered why in the world dig up old dirt on someone from their past. 

We may never know the trials and pains a person may have endured over their lifetime. People make bad decisions. Some people regret those decisions and change to a better life. Then, along comes the little reminders through the words of a busybody. Words shared to one. The one shares with another. Most of the others continue the cycle. Words. Not words to encourage, but words that reopens a painful season. If only we all consider our words before speaking, because words matter.

"But I say to you that every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgement. For your words will be justified and by your words you will be condemned."                Matthew 12:36,37

Consider these words from Jesus, "by your words you will be condemned." 

Before rushing to repeat old gossip, consider the timing of this 'Old Dirt' and how this 'Old Dirt' may reflect on your own reputation and the consequences of your need to spread something that may have been confessed before the Lord and forgiven. 

Come on! Don't you have better things to do with your time? Examine yourself. Why do you need to continue to pass on something so old? 

Instead, seek to be an encourager with wisdom and God's love. Choose not to use the "Old Dirt" bringing pain but seek to use your words to encourage and reflect on God's love.

"Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man."        Colossians 4:5,6