Scripture:
Matthew 12:34 – 37 You brood of vipers! How can you speak good, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. The good person out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure brings forth evil. I tell you, on the day of judgement people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.
Observation:
Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees, after they say that Jesus’ ability to cast out demons comes from demons. The Pharisees’ speech as with everyone reveals the true condition of one’s heart. The Pharisees had evil hearts and therefore, spoke evil directed at Jesus. Jesus tells us that we will be judged for every word we speak to be either justified or condemned.
Application:
Jesus words lead us to throw out the old playground saying, “sticks and stones may break my bones but words never hurt me.” More importantly, my words are a spiritual reflection of the true condition of my heart. I can’t be a “good person” and have evil speech towards others or that would be out of line with the scriptures. There are many polarizing things that we are presented with in our world daily. If I lead with evil from my tongue, I better quick check myself as there is malice in my heart. My speech, while loving and true, should give grace and encouragement that we received in the gospel. My speech along with everyone’s is important as Jesus tells us there are eternal consequences on the day of Judgement.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your love, grace and mercy. May your Spirit fill my heart and my words be a reflection that is good and honoring to you. Let me repent of any evil speech in my life.