¹⁰Then he called the crowd to him and said to them, “Listen and understand: ¹¹it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but it is what comes out of the mouth that defiles.”  Matthew 15:10-11

In a lively discussion with the Pharisees about customs and traditions, Jesus answers them with this passage from Matthew.  While His words are talking about the traditions and following the law, we can look at it from our perspective as well.  We can “do” all the right things, go to worship, pray, live a morally clean life and all the rest, but if we say nasty things to people, if our speech is unwholesome, the rest doesn’t matter.

Words are important. Telling those we love that we love them is important.  Finding a good thing to say to someone is important.  Sharing a compliment is far more important than an unwelcome critique. 

As you travel through this week, pay attention to your words (and the thoughts before the words).  Share the good, ignore the rest.

Peace,

Pastor Bill