Many cities have bridges. This is one in Portland. Since we are now closer to this city we are getting out a bit to explore, because the VA medical center is there.We can all agree that preparation for building bridges takes a lot of planning. It is not something that can be accomplished on a whim, without consideration. It takes people working together, those with knowledge, insight and experience. The safety of lives that travel depend on the wisdom of all to build what is structurally sound. In Matthew 7:24-27 we are told a parable of the wise man who built his house on the rock. When the storms beat upon his house, it did not fall because it was built on the rock. Not made in haste in an unsafe location prone to possible flooding. In verse 26 it says But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house in the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on the house; and it fell. And great was it’s fall..
Today, I write this because I am concerned about the amount of negativity being spewed out in the atmosphere. There is disrespect, meanness, evil intention and much more. I tend to be sensitive to those that are criticized for their appearance. I was born an average sized baby, but God’s plan was for me to be petite. So while everyone around me was getting taller in junior high, my height remained the same. I have had my share of being made fun of in my lifetime. It caused a serious lack of confidence in my young years, which carried over into my adulthood. So when people are bombarded with criticism and disregard for their appearance, I take notice of it. I love all of Psalm 139, but 13: says, For you formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. 14: I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.
We build with our words. The Bible tells us that we either curse or build up.
Proverbs 18:21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those that love it will eat its fruit.
Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, buy only what is helpful for building other up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
James 1: 26 Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on your tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.
Colossians 3:8 But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander and filthy language from your lips.
Colossians 4:6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Exodus 20:7 You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.
It seems that it has become fashionable for some to fling certain words of profanity around as though it’s just fine and acceptable. I find it very sad for the children being exposed to it. Stuff that used to be considered wrong or not appropriate, has been watered down to make it appear to be right and ok. We would all benefit to think before we speak, and for many it would be beneficial for speak less. To do so usually takes time to step away from the platform of life and do a heart check. Seeking God to search our hearts and expose what is offensive and expose the sin.
God, I pray for hearts that will yield to you in true humility and seek your face. May we admit our weaknesses. May we let down the walls in our hearts and seek your forgiveness. May we recognize our need for you, in living out our lives according to your will. Help us Lord in our frailties. I ask this in the mighty name of Jesus.. Amen
Words Like Honey 