Scripture Reference: Proberbs 10:19
We are living in a unique time. It seems fashionable to be rude in public. If something is on your mind, by all means say it. It matters little if your thoughts are profanity laced, alcohol induced, or just out of impulse. It seems as if it is perfectly reasonable to act or speak without thinking – just “apologize” later. There have been a few of examples of this in pop culture over the last few days. Last Saturday, tennis superstar Serena Williams launched a tirade filled with adult language and anger toward a call made against her. It took three separate statements to be issued before she got around to apologizing and taking responsibility for her actions. On Sunday, rapper Kanye West stole the moment as singer Taylor Swift accepted an award for best female music video on the MTV Video Music Awards. As Swift spoke, West appeared on stage, took the microphone out of her hand, and told the audience how another artist had the better video. Many tried to explain away West’s behavior because he was drunk. West later “apologized” on a late night comedy show. West’s behavior also stirred up our President, who referred to him with a word not suitable for a church bulletin article.
These events may not affect us directly, but I believe they are examples of where our culture is at the moment. We must live with constant awareness. In a very real fashion, our culture affects us subtlely. While we may not have the opportunity to make a mistake in such a public manner, every one of us occupies own own small stage that others see on a regular basis. What do they see? How do you react in pressure filled situations?
This is where scriptural principles come in. James said, be…slow to speak and slow to anger, James 1:19b. Putting this verse into practice is difficult to say the least, especially when we are prone to stress. Hardly anyone starts out their day planning to go out and say words that they will later regret. These things come on suddenly. This is why James wrote, no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison, James 3:8. So if we are going to have success in this area, we must take quick manuevers when we feel the urge to vent our emotions. Gaining the ability to be slow to speak or react in certain situations takes practice. Sometimes we will not get it right. But over time, we can find success. I don’t know about you, but I am still working on this ability. Solomon wrote, when there are many words, transgress is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise, Proverbs 10:19. Later we read, he who restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding. Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is considered prudent, Proverbs 17:27-28. These are qualities we must all work on.
We are all players on our own individual stage. The world is watching. While it may not be fair, quick impressions can be lasting ones. When we allow the heat of the moment to get to us and we respond openly in words and emotion we can do lasting damage to our influence. Once spoken, words cannot be taken back. They reveal what is on the inside. They can do much harm. See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire, James 3:5. It has been said, “speak in haste and you will make the best speech you have ever regretted.” Whatever impression you had of Serena Williams or Kanye West before last week, you will most likely recall these incidents the next time you hear their name. While their apologies may or may not be considered genuine, the damage has already been done and lasting impressions made. If you are like me, there may be some moments on the stage of life you would like to have back. But we cannot. Those moments are over. And while they may be over, we do have the present and can learn to be aware of the potential for danger in this area.
How are you performing on the stage of life? What do others see? What lasting impressions are being made? Make it your desire to represent our Lord in everything you do. You’ll be glad you did.
Related posts
- Style Over Substance
- How Do We Come Across?
- Wrong Doings - Proverbs 5-6
- Children & Parents
- Husbands and Wives
- Good and Evil
- Godly Principles We Can Live By
- Handling Prosperity
- Where is Your Child Surfing?
PDF 
