We are Held Accountable For Our Speech.

     Jesus Christ tells us that we will one day give an account for every careless word that proceeds from our mouths (Matt 12:36).
     This is a sobering thought, as most, if not all of us, at one time or another, have said things that we would not want to answer to God for.
     Jesus tells us that our words will either justify us, or condemn us, for what we say, comes out of our hearts (Matt 12:33-37).
     How many times have have you used God's name in a careless, blasphemous manner? His name has been used by thousands as a curse word. He will not hold one guiltless who uses His name in an irreverent manner (Exodus 20:7).
     What about falsehood? Look what the word of God says about those who tell lies (Rev 21:8, 22:15). There will be no place for them in God's kingdom. They will spend eternity in the lake of fire. This is God's judgment against liars.
     Course jesting and dirty stories are also condemned by the scriptures (Ephesians 5:3-6). Do not be deceived, immoral people will not inherit the kingdom of God.
     Gossip, backbiting, and the like, are also signs that one's heart is not right with God. Telling juicy stories about another violates the law of love for our neighbor (Leviticus 19:16, 18; Romans 1:28-32; 2 Timothy 3:3). Understand what Paul is saying in Romans chapter 1. The sins he lists are the result of God giving up an individual to a depraved mind. This is a very serious condition to be in (Romans 1:18-32. Notice that gossip is mentioned, along with slander, and deceit.
     Jesus warns us that words said in anger place us on very dangerous ground, for if we are angry with our brother without just cause, we have violated the spirit of the law prohibiting murder (Matthew 5:21-22). When we hurl insults at another in anger, we are killing that person, in God's eyes.
     James tells us that if we think we are religious, but we don't control our tongues, our religion is worthless (James 1:26). Many individuals think that they are in good standing with God, but they talk like they are in better standing with the devil. They tell dirty jokes, gossip, use profanity and vulgar language, tell lies, and shout hurtful words in anger. 
     We will all stand before the judgment of God almighty some day and account for all that we have said and done. Even our inner thought life will be exposed on that day. He will execute judgment on the ungodly, for all their ungodly deeds, and the ungodly things they have said (Jude 1:14-15).
     Are you ready to face Him? James tells us that no man can tame the tongue (James 3:8). It is a restless evil. We need a Savior to deliver us from ourselves. Our only hope is to cast ourselves on the mercy of God in repentance and humbly submit to Jesus Christ. He will forgive us for His sake, and deliver us from the power of evil that holds our lives in bondage. We can live lives that please God, through Jesus Christ. Our speech can be seasoned with grace, helping others instead of tearing them down (Eph 4:29; Col 4:6). 
     Turn to Christ today!