Choice Words

Do not slander a servant to his master,or he will curse you, and you will pay for it.

Proverbs 30:10 (NIV)

First of all, slander is mean. Can I say that again? Slander is mean. To slander is to speak or spread false information. It’s harmful to another’s reputation. It is to accuse someone unfairly.

Let’s apply this to two servants. First, to the waitress who serves you at a restaurant, and secondly, to the servants at your church.

1. The waitress: Have you ever seen people treat their waitress like dirt? I have. They’re impatient and demanding. If something is forgotten or not to their liking, they act like it’s the end of the world. They tip cheap and complain to the manager. This is bad behavior for anyone, but inexcusable for the child of God. Did you ever consider that maybe this is a weary single mom working a second job? Or maybe your waitress is new, or has a migraine, or is going through a rough divorce. Have you ever thought that maybe that waitress came across your path for you to bless her instead of her just serving you? Have you ever prayed about it?
2. I feel prompted to encourage you to be kind when speaking about those who serve at your church. Don’t ever think your ministry is the ministry of the critical tongue. Be kind when speaking about a Sunday school teacher or an usher or your pastor.

Make It Personal . . . Live It Out!

Our proverb today informs us that giving bad reports can backfire. The person we reported to might view us with contempt. My husband and I had a standing policy: “I can talk about my mamma, you can talk about your mamma. But you can’t talk about my mamma.” This does not mean we don’t ever discuss concerns. Silence isn’t always golden. It is the motive and method that are important. The right word, at the right time, in the right way can have the right result.

Let’s Pray

Dear Lord, help me to be careful and kind. Pointing out error doesn’t have to tear someone down. Help me to choose my words both carefully and kindly.

One Year Bible Reading

Habakkuk 1:1–3:19; Revelation 9:1-21; Psalm 137:1-9; Proverbs 30:10