The Overflow of the Heart

www.bible.com/1713/luk.6.45.csb

Words hurt. Not like sticks and stone, clubs or bullets, but they do hurt all the same. Words matter. Words mean things. Never let anyone insult you only to follow it with, “I was only joking!” Even jokes in bad taste come from somewhere. A person’s speech and use of language can tell you a lot about a person.

But this text is as much a warning about others as it is to ourselves. Something we all need to pay closer attention to is our use of language, how we speak to others, and the secret loathing that we sometimes nurse. Is there darkness in your heart when you think of certain people? It will find its way out. It will sneak out and betray you when you are unguarded. Don’t like your boss? It is will find its way into your speech. Have a secret crush on that person in your life (yes, even us married folks fall into this one), it will find its way out. Nothing hidden will stay that way if you continue to nurse it in your heart. Rather, drive out that secret evil. Be true, honest and of integrity in your heart and in your speech.

Dear God, please help me be a person of integrity. May the words of my mouth reflect truly the feelings and thoughts of my heart. May my heart be pure. I know Lord that only You can make my heart pure because I know within me my heart is wicked and deceitful. Only You have the power to cleanse my heart and help me be a whole person. Lord may I lay my heart before You as the sacrifice of my life that You may give me a clean heart. Lord may my words and actions be an encouragement to others. Lord help me to forgive those people in my life who I feel have wronged me. Help me to see others from Your perspective, because my own is so limited. Lord I earnestly desire Yoru cleansing power by the blood of my Lord Jesus Christ, that I may be pure and whole again. Only You Lord can do this. I know that my feeble human ability is no match for it. You Lord alone are worthy of praise. In You Lord I find wholeness and healing. Thank You Lord for bringing me life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.