Our words have always carried more power than I think we realize, but in this world of blogging, texting, twitter and facebook, our words are also very public, and very long-lasting. In our statements, comments, status updates and more, we are making statements about what's important to us, what we believe about others, and more. My challenge to all of us is to be intentional about what we say. To consider our motives, our beliefs, and our audience. Whether we like it or not, our statements are making statements long after the status update has been changed.
I know I'm particularly sensitive to this and I was asking God if I'm too sensitive, if some of my beliefs have been formed from religious cultural tradition rather than the true Heart and Word of God. What came to mind was Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things."
Whatever your "litmus test" - have one. Let's be intentional about using our words to bless and not curse, to honor, and not dishonor, our Creator, in whose image all people are made.
I'm interested in your thoughts on this - either through comments or future conversations - let's talk.
Jen :)
Such good writing going on here--love your honesty and growing faith. I remember well the year (I think I was in my 20's) that I memorized Psalm 19:14, May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, Oh Lord my Rock and my Redeemer....because I was so sarcastic and cynical at that time...sad. However, as I just said that over and over everyday, slowly the hardness of my heart began to soften and I was on a healing path. I loved remembering that year as I read your blog today. Perhaps it is time again for me to have a 'one verse' year...we'll see. Love you lots! Joyce
ReplyDeleteA very good reminder Jen! Thanks. I think you are 100% right! I found myself this week re-posting something on FB that was mis-interpreted by a friend. I felt defensive and irritated that they could mis-interpret the intention of my post so grossly. And then it occurred to me...well of course they might. After all this is not the way we were made to communicate. Words can be read so many different ways. My sarcasm...turned into an offensive statement to someone else. I removed my post and then tail between my legs I apologized. I will be much more careful what I post now.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the blog...re-affirmed what God was speaking to me yesterday!
Rochelle
Hmmm... something to consider. It's easy to get caught up in emotion or the moment and potentially cross the line. I enjoy being witty on FB but would hate for an intention of fun to end up misinterpreted. I also use it for a vent sometimes. But, it is so important to remember that where we allow our thoughts or our comments to go is where our beliefs and actions will follow. As I began, hmmm... considering your thoughts.
ReplyDelete(from Jeff) I'm pretty sure that I'm on the "too sensitive" side. Some people are able to use humor or sarcasm to show the people around them that they are loved - by it, you know you're "in" with them. I can't do that. And for me, I think my sensitivity comes from fear. I do not need the fear! It is the fear of being mis-represented, and criticized for something I did not mean (and has its roots in certain events from my past, I believe.) So what would my personality look like (what will it look like!) in the place of freedom? We'll see - and I still believe I'd be careful about words, they create and bless, and have an effect, sometimes when we don't even know it. "You're 'blank' (this or that)." People are so in need of knowing their identity, because we only know who we are in relationship to something outside of ourselves (and our relationship with Someone has been broken) - that some of us will apply anything we hear about ourselves deeply, and can carry it for a long time - even if it was a joke. So now I've written a much longer response than intended! What I wanted to say is that "I'm too concerned about this in my life, and I think it comes from a place of fear." And if you've read this far, and you made a previous post, know that I did not write this in response to any of you beautiful people who's gifts for life I admire, I'm just writing about myself!! Ah - there's that "sensitivity" at work again! "Holy, Chosen, and dearly loved,"
ReplyDeleteJeff
BTW - I am now thinking about friends who have "called me names" recently, and I remember it warmly, their tongue-in-cheek comments make me feel loved! So if you see me, and you love me, you can call me whatever fun thing you want!! :) But I may not know what to say in return!!