Tag: speech

Profane And Idle Babblings

“Profane And Idle Babblings” By Kirk Hunt

But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness.    And their message will spread like cancer. Hymenaeus and Philetus are of this sort

2 Timothy 2:16–17 NKJV

 

It was not that long ago that cursing and foolish talk was a negative.  Men and women would demonstrate their education, or refinement, by speaking in words and phrases that you would proudly repeat to others.  It seems now that profane and idle babblings pervades throughout society and sadly the Church.

Foul language and foolishness are ugly, coming from unbelievers.  Such things are especially foul, coming from those who call themselves Christians.  Christians are called to be a peculiar people.  In this case peculiar refers to careful conduct that puts a positive light on Christ and fellow Christians.

All Christians are a witness regarding Jesus Christ.  Do you testify to the purity and grace of Jesus?  Does your conduct and speech draw, or repel, non-believers? 

Holding yourself to a higher, purer form of conduct and communication will make you stand out.  Trust me, they will notice.  Do they wait eagerly for you to slip up?  Some, yes.

What comes out of your mouth may not be cursing, per se.  You can speak the absolute truth with hurtful intent and wicked motives.  Deliberately, or thoughtlessly, injuring others with your words is just as wicked and sinful as anything else. 

Think:       Is my life and conduct profane or pious?  Am I thoughtful or thoughtless when I speak?

Pray:         “Lord, help me to be a good witness of You.”

 

Copyright © April 2018, Kirk Hunt

This devotional is brought to you courtesy of CadreMen Press.  You can purchase a copy of Blessed and Blessing: Devotionals For Gospel Champions from your favorite bookseller or directly from CadreMen Press.

Freedom Of Speech

“Freedom Of Speech” By Kirk Hunt

And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power,  that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.

1 Corinthians 2:4–5 NKJV

 

It is my prayer that the speech of every son and daughter of God is full of quality, eloquence and diction.  Still, more than mere excellence, I pray that what you say comes directly from the Holy Spirit.  I pray that your every word drips with God’s wisdom, shines with God’s grace and throbs with God’s power.

 

Americans are used to freedom of speech.  I suspect that too often we make use of the privilege without taking full responsibility for what is said.  Just because you can say something, does not mean you should say anything (1 Corinthians 8:9).

 

All freedoms consist of two parts, the privilege and the responsibility.  I have the privilege of driving an automobile and the responsibility to do so safely and courteously.  A car can be a weapon like any other, in the hands of the irresponsible.

 

The tongue, our speech, can bind wounds or start wars.  What you say can bless hearts or blast souls.  Your words are a destructive weapon or beneficial tool, depending on how skillfully and responsibly you use your privilege. 

 

You have the freedom to speak in your circles and spheres of influence.  I pray that you consider carefully what you say and why.  You are an authorized representative of Jesus Christ.  Consider your responsibilities as you exercise your privileges.

 

Think:        Do I use the privilege of speech responsibly?

 

Pray:           “Lord, help me to take responsibility for my free speech.”

 

Copyright © November 2016, Kirk Hunt

 

This devotional is brought to you courtesy of CadreMen Press.  You can purchase a copy of Blessed and Blessing: Devotionals For Gospel Champions from your favorite bookseller or directly from CadreMen Press.