Radical Speech Therapy
Too often what we say is heard wrongly, or we regret our words almost as quickly as we speak them.
Jesus always had His tongue tamed. Jesus knew that words spoken cannot be retrieved.
Yet, Jesus too would verbally defend Himself, when He saw need.
As was their custom the religious gatekeepers had accused Jesus yet again, claiming He was in league with satan. (See full story in Matthew 12:22-37)
The Pharisees had once more raised the ire of Jesus, or was it really that Jesus had raised the ire of the Pharisees, for He defended Himself?
Criticism was on their mind because evil was in their heart. Jesus knew this, so He taught them:
For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. (Matthew 12:34b)
The heart that hurts, blurts hurts to others.
The heart that is burdened, showers burdens upon others.
The heart laden with anger, criticisms and accusations tears at others.
Abba Poeman, 1600 years ago reflected from the desert upon Jesus' defense in Matthew 12:37,
If a man remembered that it is written - By your words you are acquitted and by your words you will condemned - he will remain silent.
Abba Poeman too spoke further on the wisdom of a still tongue from Proverbs 12:13,
A brother enquired of Abba Poemen, 'If I see something, do you want me to tell you about it?' The old man replied, 'It is written: If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and his shame. If you are questioned, speak; if not, remain silent. For those who remain silent will have peace wherever they live.
He who has learned to tie his tongue can tame wild horses.
Today's Soul Snippet:
'I need to move righteousness from a concept in thinking to the first precept before doing.' ~ Michael Cartwright