Embracing God's Grace
“Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead,
I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you.” Philippians 3 13-15 NKJV
I live in a county that requires a yearly emissions test to renew my car’s license plate. If your vehicle fails this test, the county will not issue the yearly sticker that deters the police from pulling you over.
The emissions test searches for a level of fumes deemed unacceptable that escape the vehicle while the engine is running. If the car is putting too much carbon monoxide or other pollutants into the air it doesn’t pass. The vehicle must then be repaired so it no longer pollutes the atmosphere.
I said something yesterday that I regret. It wasn’t hurtful to anyone (other than myself), but I regret saying it anyway. Not that long ago, I would have been more careful with my words. It makes me think I could benefit from an emissions test as well. I certainly don’t want to give off anything toxic to my environment!
Sometimes we think we are running along just fine but we really aren’t. We are not always mindful of the pollutants we release when a comment we make or opinion we voice is hurtful to others. Things that are said casually can be devastating, even more so when we are unaware of situations people may be facing.
Our words mirror what is in our heart. They can either be sweet, fragrant and pleasing or noxious and deadly. We don’t often take time enough to examine our speech unless we are challenged by someone else to do so. Or, we often put more thought into our words when they come back to bite us, and we find they are to our own detriment.
“For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:37 NKJV
“In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, But he who restrains his lips is wise.” Proverbs 10:19 NKJV
“He who has knowledge spares his words, And a man of understanding is of a calm spirit.” Proverbs 17:27 NKJV
“Do you see a man hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” Proverbs 29:20 NKJV
“If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless.” James 1:26 KNJV
I have to renew my license this month, lest I get a ticket for driving unlawfully. I will take this opportunity to not only check my car but myself as well. I am blessed. But I also want to be a blessing!
“Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, Sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.” Proverbs 16:24 NKJV
When is the last time you had an emissions test? What are you putting into the atmosphere?
B Is for Blessed! 