Using Our Words For God
"Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it; if words, let it be God's words; if help, let it be God's hearty help."
( From I Peter 4; The Message)
Earlier this week I came upon this scripture during my devotional time and it seemed to speak to me. The emphasis on being generous with words, and letting those words be God's words, gave a sort of blessing to the "work" I have been doing in retirement. Blogging and teaching online, has become a true joy and something that I both feel passionate about and also feel a responsibility for handling properly. I want to be proud of the words I put forth and I also want them to honor God. Although my blog is a lifestyle blog, and not every post is devotional, I still want to use my words carefully, no matter what type of post I am doing. The same holds true when I am responding to students on my online classes.
This is true in all of life, though, isn't it? No matter what "work" we are pursuing, whether it be at home or somewhere else, we carry our faith with us. I know that for myself, I sometimes allow the irritations of life to get the best of me, and allow my words to not always be a blessing to others. I realize that this is part of being human, but, I'm not proud of it! Thankfully, we serve a forgiving God who meets us where we are, reminding us of the blessings and gifts we have been given.
"May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you, Oh Lord, my rock and my redeemer."
(Psalm 19:14)
Blessings,
Debbie
6 comments:
Thanks, Debbie, for another meaningful post. I look forward to your weekend inspiration post every week.
You truly model this in your daily living, Debbie. You inspire me to be more thoughtful and selective with my words. Thank you for sharing this scripture as a reminder.
Thanks, Sharon. I feel the same way about your posts!
Thank you, Laura, for your sweet words!
This is a very good reminder. My biggest stressor is my job. For this reason, I've started the day with a prayer that is specific to arriving at and making it through the day here, at my job. I pull up a web cam of the ocean (live), get out my prayer and meditate on it for a few minutes before diving into the day. I also stumble and get irritated at times and then I'm definitely not using my words for God's glory or to uplift another person. Not proud of that at all, but I'm being honest, it happens. Lately in my life in general, I'm bringing God into my days more frequently than I used to and it has changed my outlook a lot. When something pushes me up to the edge, I get up and go for a walk and pray. It works. I will remember Psalm 19:14 as I enter the building here each day. That is going to help me! Your blog is a breath of fresh air Debbie. I enjoy all of your posts, and definitely your weekend inspirations!
I sure understand, Karen, about stressful jobs! I haven't forgotten how tough some of those days were to get through. I love your idea of focusing on the ocean and praying. Such a beautiful image. I'm glad the post is helpful and I pray that today brings only good things for you!
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