Higher Everyday

Key Verse

“Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5).

Text — 1 Peter 5:5-10

Message

According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, an elder is any person of earlier birth or greater age. Virtually every tradition and custom extol respect and submission to elders. To this recommendation, the Bible gives a nod. Esther is a good example – she was obedient and cautioned us: Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter (Ecclesiastes 10:20). Spoken words are powerful. Conversations are easily overheard and reported. And unfortunately, they are reported with distortions and modifications.

 In this era of informants and dissemblers, be careful what you say and to whom you say it. Many have uttered words that they wish they could go back and “rewind the tape.” Unfortunately, our words cannot be unsaid and our actions cannot be undone. We may augment, clarify, apologize and re-state. But we cannot really withdraw our statements. Some precious lives have been lost due to unguarded statements. Mind your speech.

Quote

Spoken words are powerful.

Challenge

We cannot really withdraw our statements.

Prayer for today

Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.