Articles
Be Careful What You Say
“He that covers a transgression seeks love; but he that repeats a matter separates very friends” (Prov. 17:19).
The Scriptures say a lot about loving our brother, about making sure that he comes first in our preferences. That he is accorded the kind of respect and honor he deserves, even when we disagree with him.
It is true that we may need to correct the wrong done by a brother, but such is not a license for us to fuel our ego or bolster our reputation. Before criticizing we must carefully examine our motives. It’s people who are important, not our own satisfaction.
Allow me to suggest three points to consider before we open your mouth.
First, before we say something about someone, be sure it’s true. It is dangerous to repeat unverified information.
Second, before we say something about someone, examine the reason for saying it. Abraham Lincoln once said, “Don’t criticize before you know you can help.”
Third, before we say something about someone, remember how Jesus said, “Do unto to others as you would that they should do unto you.” If we don’t want our name slandered we must not be guilty of slandering others.
The tongue is hard to control. It requires tremendous concentration. However, if we fail to tame the tongue it can kindle all kinds of fires.
