Blog From Matthew

Numbers 21:1-22:20 

Luke 1:26-56 

Psalm 57:1-11 

Proverbs 11:9-11

Proverbs 11:9 With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors,

but through knowledge the righteous escape.

Most of us are aware that the words we choose to say to others can have lasting effects on one's personal development and growth. Good, positive words involving encouragement, compliments, and respectful criticism can help build up others. However, hurtful words like gossip, bad mouthing, and throwing insults are all ways that do the exact opposite and may have the power to lead the individual down a dark, lonely path or ruin someone's reputation. The words we say to others are one thing, but this proverb can also apply to the way we choose to listen to words coming at us. This is also important, if not more. The knowledge we gain from reading God's word helps us on both fronts. 

I generally feel that it's much easier and more obvious to discern what to say and what not to say from a Christian perspective. Teasing or bullying someone might never cross our minds, gossip may push us away, and insulting others would be seen as a disgraceful act. 

However, I personally feel that being on the receiving side is much more difficult as emotions can rise on the spot making us not respond how we're taught to respond through God's word. I, myself, am guilty of sometimes letting my emotions get the better of me. 

We are taught to do several things in the new testament when it comes to speaking/listening to others:

1. In regards to initially hearing something - James 1:19 "...Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." - This is pretty self explanatory.

2. In regards to our relationships with the church, co-workers, family, and friends - 2 Corinthians 13:11 "...Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you." - As I understand it, we should not be gossiping or speaking poorly of others. Peace and unity should be our aim. 

3. In regards to our response - 1 Peter 3:9 "...Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing." - Your response has the ability to either be expected or completely move someone. How much more of an impact can you make if you act in a way that honors God? 

These three examples of this new testament knowledge play their part into how we should communicate with others, behave, and respond to words coming at us. If you struggle in this area I encourage you to spend some time reading God's word and open yourself up to God's way of interacting with others. 

- Anthony

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