Matthew 12:36-37

“But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgement. For by thy words, thou shalt be justified and by thy words, thou shalt be condemned.”

This verse is slightly scary. It’s scary because every single word that I speak, even the ones that I think aren’t relevant, are relevant and they matter. And if they clearly matter to God, then they should matter to me. Idle can mean lazy or without work but in this context, it means pointless or without purpose or effect.

I find this verse quite convicting because I say so many words in the day, sometimes without giving much thought to them. The fact that I will be judged for these very same words is humbling. The context of this scripture is that Jesus is talking on the topic of blasphemy and how the fruits of a person can reveal their spirit, He then finishes with this verse.

To give an account means to document either in written or verbal form something that has happened. It links to being accountable. I think Jesus is teaching us to be careful and take thought about the things that we say because there is so much power in the tongue. Through the words that we speak, we will be deemed as righteous towards God or punished and held in disapproval.

Prayer:

Lord Father, You are holy and full of mercy and love. I thank You because You have given me a mouth to speak praises to You and Your blessings to others. I ask Father, that You fill me with Your Spirit today so that I am careful about what I say. Your Word says that the tongue has power and death in it. I want to use my speech for good and to glorify You. Father, please make the words I say edifying, uplifting, positive and in agreement with Your Word. By my words, I pray that I reflect You. I renounce any foul language, swear words or negative speech to leave my mouth. Teach me to be quick to listen and slow to speak in all situations. In Jesus name I pray, amen.