Christian Living

Conversation Determines Destiny

by Terry Barlow
07/30/14
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    Psalm 50 verse 23 declares, “Whoever orders his conduct (conversation) aright I will show the salvation of God.” When we consider that the word “conversation” is also used in the Bible to signify conduct or behavior, this is a good reminder for us of how powerful an indicator our everyday conversation is to the quality of our conduct, and how we lead our lives. As a matter of fact, the apostle James likens it to the rudder (steering) of a ship. (James 3, v.4&5) In other words, our lives are steered by our tongues in the same way as ships are steered by rudders. Rudders are relatively small instruments compared to many parts on a ship, but they have a huge influence in directing the progress of that ship. Similarly, our tongues are relatively small when compared to so many other parts of our bodies, and many idle chattering words we speak seem small too and insignificant in the total scheme of things, yet they can have crucial consequences in the ultimate direction our lives take. “Consider how large a forest fire a small spark ignites.” Rumors and gossip, and harsh criticism can destroy another’s life as well as our own. But on the other hand, when the Holy Spirit has charge of our tongues and we use them to edify and speak His truth, we can set our communities and cities ablaze for the living God!