But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then
peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit,
impartial and sincere.
I
am my words.
When I worked at the library, I hung encouraging reminders
above my desk. Many of them have moved to my refrigerator since I retired. One magnet
I'd picked up at a book conference said, "You are your words." I
thought about that phrase a lot. People observe actions, which are important,
but in this world where we chat on social media my words speak for me. When no
one can see me—I am my words.
Recently, I attended an online writers'
conference. One of the speakers shared about writing on social media. She
encouraged us to determine our posting value and to filter our words through
these values. She mentioned three I also impose on myself. Be fun,
inspirational, and encouraging. One I'd add, teach Jesus' truth.
As a believer in the Bible and Jesus, I find
myself clinging to these values and seeking God's wisdom more than ever. You
see, I have opinions about the world, but do my opinions speak the wisdom I
seek from God. I have thoughts on what might be best, but would my ideas help
or hurt? Would they flame an unnecessary fire? James 3:5 says, "Likewise,
the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great
boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark."
I am my words. As I pen my weekly devotion, I have
to ask myself if my words help or harm. When I respond to a Facebook post am I
sharing good news or stirring an already boiling pot.
One thing I've learned and try to practice is to
pray before my fingers touch the keyboard. I'm not perfect, sometimes I forget, but I try to put
Jesus' wisdom before my own. Opinions are good, thoughts are great, and I value
freedom of expression. But I'm called by my Father to be considerate and kind,
a vessel for his peace and grace.
What values do you align yourself with? Seek God's
wisdom as you express your thoughts and ideas. He loves us and wants us to show Him to the world.