Up to Heaven (Prayer to set the scene)Come, O Lord, with tender healing,
Touch my lips with living coal,
Sanctify each human feeling,
Speak and make me fully whole.
Brindley Boon
Down to earth (to get thoughts going)
Rumours that circulated in Britain during the war, such as the whispers in 1940 that invading Germans were being parachuted in dressed as nuns, failed to be silenced by government posters reminding people that 'Careless talk costs lives' and 'Walls have ears'.
The story is told of a butcher who learnt to his cost that the tongue, when let wild can, so easily, become our worst enemy. A customer came in just as he was closing down for the day. The lady wanted a chicken. The butcher had only one left in the back room, but it proved to be too small for the lady as it weighed only 2½ lb. She asked for a bigger chicken. Instead of admitting that he 0nly had one, the butcher went to the back and brought back the same chicken, claiming that it weighed over 3lbs! "I'll tel you what I'll do", said the lady, "I'll take them both!" The butcher froze on the spot, speechless!
Looking Sideways (complimentary Bible Reading)
In James 1:26 we read that with our tongue we reflect the state of our heart. Then chapter 3 gives some examples of how 'keeping a tight rein' is as necessary in everyday life as it is in our spiritual lives. When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Equally, we can allow God to 'keep a tight rein' on us. God's Holy Spirit can be the 'bit in our mouth' and the 'small rudder to steer us'.
Looking Forwards (challenge for today)
It is not surprising that during the war people were warned that 'Careless Talk Costs Lives' because precious information could so easily get into the wrong hands. As Christians, the reverse can be true. As followers of Jesus we have precious news to tell, and when we are careless, we waste time,we miss opportunities, we pass on the negatives and it costs lives. People who might have heard the hopeful news, don't hear it. People who might have accepted Christ into their lives, don't.
Homework (Oh Yes!)
What can you say to those around you? Don't forget God's Holy Spirit will tell you what to say if you simply ask. Step out...and try it!
Rounding off ( something to keep in mind this week)
What can I say to cheer a world of sorrow?
How bring back hope where men have sorely failed?
Just where I am I'll speak the word of comfort,
Tell how for me Christ's sacrifice availed.
Miriam M Richards
From Marta's Vintage © 2008
