Design for Communication
11
A Power for Good—The apostle, seeing the inclination to abuse
the gift of speech, gives direction concerning its use. “Let no corrupt
communication proceed out of your mouth,” he says, “but that which
is good to the use of edifying.” The word “corrupt” means here any
word that would make an impression detrimental to holy principles
and undefiled religion, any communication that would eclipse the
view of Christ, and blot from the mind true sympathy and love. It
includes impure hints, which, unless instantly resisted, lead to great
sin. Upon everyone is laid the duty of barring the way against corrupt
[19]
communications....
Guard well the talent of speech; for it is a mighty power for evil as
well as for good. You cannot be too careful of what you say; for the
words you utter show what power is controlling the heart. If Christ
rules there, your words will reveal the beauty, purity, and fragrance of
a character molded and fashioned by His will. But if you are under the
guidance of the enemy of all good, your words will echo his sentiments.
The great responsibility bound up in the use of the gift of speech is
plainly made known by the Word of God. “By thy words thou shalt be
justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned,” Christ declared.
And the psalmist asks, “Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle?
who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and
worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that
backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh
up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is
contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth
to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money
to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these
things shall never be moved” [
Psalm 15:1-5
].
“Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile”
[
Psalm 34:13
]. The wild beast of the forest may be tamed, “but the
tongue can no man tame” [
James 3:8
]. Only through Christ can we gain
[20]
the victory over the desire to speak hasty, unChristlike words. When
in His strength we refuse to give utterance to Satan’s suggestions, the
plant of bitterness in our hearts withers and dies. The Holy Spirit can
make the tongue a savor of life unto life.—
The Review and Herald,
May 12, 1910
.
An Index of Character—Your words are an index of your character,
and they will testify against you. Here we see the importance of