Before We Post

There is a story that makes the rounds from time to time about a preacher who was frustrated because some people were no longer worshiping regularly. They were also not contributing financially as they once had done.  

One of the members knew of his frustration and volunteered to write a letter to each of these people. While the man had a good heart, he was also not known to be very tactful. Along with that, it was known that he was not very highly educated.  

Because of the preacher’s frustration and because he had done all he knew to do, he decided to give the man the names of the people and let him see what he could do. To the preacher’s surprise, many of “the wandering sheep” returned and the contribution increased dramatically.  

The preacher asked the man if he could have a copy of the letter he’d sent to all of these people. When he read the letter, he was very complimentary of the man for writing it. At the same time, he also felt the need to tell him, 

“There is only one “t” in dirty and no “c” in skunk.”  

I think of that story often as I read what some of us put on social media. I have no idea how some of us think we will change anybody’s mind in terms of our religious beliefs (or political beliefs, for that matter) by posting things that are rude, sarcastic, hurtful, hateful, etc.  

I’m hoping that what God’s Word says about the lifestyle and language of those who profess to be His people will guide us as we live, speak, and post. Please consider just a few of the passages that inform us about how we are to relate to one another and to God.

“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” (Ephesians 4:29)

“But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.” (Eph. 5:3-4)

“Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” (Col. 4:6)

I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matt. 12:36-37)

There are many more passages that could be used in this discussion, but, hopefully, these will give all of us something to think about before we post.

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.”  (Psalm 19:14)

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AUTHOR: Jim Faughn