Proverbs 15:26
We
often separate our thoughts from our words, excusing our thoughts. Our thoughts
do matter. I am not talking about the quick, momentary thought that crosses our
mind. Until our mind is washed by the Word, we can’t do much about those. I am
talking about the thoughts that get rolled over in our heads. We chew on a
thought, and let it ruminate. If we chew enough on the thought, it will end up
coming out of our months, often at the wrong time.
The
reason I raise this issue is because of our Proverb today. Notice that the
thoughts of the wicked are contrasted with the grace-filled words of another
person. Which would you rather hear, the thoughts of a wicked person or the
pleasant words coming from a grace-filled person? Not many people who love the
LORD would want to listen in on the thoughts of a wicked person. Sometimes I
don’t even want to listen in on my own thoughts, let alone those of a wicked
person!
So
why do so many of us revel in the dirt of the World? We listen to gossip, watch
the gossip channels, get sucked in by the latest scandal or unbelievably crude
behavior. The news cycle is based on bad news. And the raunchier the more it
sells. Just take Miley Cyrus as an example. Do you think anyone actually
stopped listening to her music because of her recent behavior? Actually
stopped? Permanently stopped? Her brand may have suffered a temporary setback,
but in the long run, people will soon become numb to the behavior and accept
it, returning to purchase more of her music.
Look
at the words of our leading politicians. Some are the vilest personal words spoken
to a political opponent and some attack a policy. Can you imagine the thoughts
behind the vile words? If the words are this vicious, can you imagine the
wickedness of the thoughts? I know that political speech is planned with a
purpose, so it does not necessarily reflect the thoughts, but listen to the
atmosphere it creates. Words like “terrorist” used against a political opponent
are shameful. They reflect a degradation in character by those using such
words.
When
was the last time you spoke something that was not grace-filled? Or you allowed
your thoughts to run wild?