What would you do if you saw someone using a hammer to write? After you stopped laughing, you’d probably intervene, for a hammer is not a writing utensil. Now, here’s another question for you. What would you do if you heard someone arguing, complaining, or gossiping? Would you consider this misuse of “equipment” and intervene? Or, would you pick up where the person left off and add your “two cents?”
I don’t know about you, but I’m guilty of mouth misuse every now and then. Just think about the precious words we waste each day complaining about our jobs or arguing with people who really don’t matter. Even worse, the words we waste seldom change the situation. In the text cited above, however, Mary Magdalene reminds us of gainful employment for our mouths – spreading the good news about Jesus. And, the Gospel will change things! No wonder Jesus told the disciples, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone” (Mark 16:15, New Living Translation).
This recharge is a simple reminder: “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences” (Proverbs 18:21, New Living Translation). Therefore, get up from misuse – use your mouth wisely, not wastefully. Share the good news about our risen Savior, Jesus Christ!
… For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way (James 3:2, New Living Translation).