The Most Important Words
Have you considered your speech lately? What kind of words are coming out of your mouth these days? The apostle Paul taught in Colossians 4:6 - "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one."

Most folks find it challenging to maintain speech that is always with grace. When things are going smoothly in our lives, it is easy to speak kind words and be patient. However, when trials arise, controlling our tongues becomes more difficult. In fact, it is revealed in James 3:8 - "No man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison." If we are not exceedingly careful, our tongues will defile our entire bodies (cf. James 3:6). It is therefore imperative that we be continually aware of our words and the effect they may have upon others and ourselves.

With these thoughts in mind, consider the following points from an unknown author who gave advice concerning public relations:

I believe there is great wisdom in this list. It is good when we can forget about ourselves long enough to acknowledge others and to show respect and gratitude to them. This causes others to be happier, and so are we, in the long run.

Friends, if you are unwilling to freely acknowledge your mistakes when they come to your attention, you've got some growing up to do. If you aren't actively looking for ways to complement those in your life, you are not encouraging them as you should. If you aren't in the habit of asking for input from others (where appropriate) and being courteous by using "please" and "thank you", you will be perceived by some as rude and perhaps bossy. If your conversations continually focus upon "me, myself, and I", you've got an ego problem that you need to address.

Ultimately, may we always remember what Jesus said about our speech in Matthew 12:36,37 - "But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned." May we never forget the power of our words!