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GLEANINGS FROM THE WORD
Encountering an extraordinary God in ordinary life
Issue #318 November 10, 2001
Thieves
Are you a thief? I’ll bet the reaction of most people being asked that question is indignation or anger followed by a curt "NO!"
Well, I am. I don’t mean to be, but sometimes it happens. I don’t steal money or personal possessions, but I frequently steal something far more valuable.
I steal hope. I steal joy. I rob from relationships.
I do it when the words that come out of my mouth are harsh, unkind and critical. They cut right to the core of a person’s being.
You’re stupid. Big deal, any idiot could have done that. That relationship will never last. In effect, I’m offering a curse on someone when I use words like that and I steal from them.
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water. James 3:9-12 NIV
So, let me ask you, are you a thief?
If the answer is yes, it’s time to ask Holy Spirit to help you get a grip on your tongue. It’s also time to reflect over your words, and seek forgiveness and reconciliation where possible.
Until next time, may the words that roll from your lips be blessings, not curses.
God bless.
Kevin
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© 2001 K.F. "Kevin" Corbin
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