Researchers say the average American male speaks 6073 words per day, and the average American female speaks 8805 words per day. That’s a lot of words! Can you remember everything you said today?
Can you at least remember the gist of your major conversations?
Hmmm…
Here’s what Jesus said:
But I tell you, on the day of judgment men will have to give account for every idle (inoperative, nonworking) word they speak. (Matthew 12:36)
The dictionary defines idle as “something of no real worth, importance, or significance.” And the Greek dictionary says idle in this verse means “free from labor; barren.”
So I’m taking a little time to reflect…
- Are all my words worthwhile?
- Are they important?
- Are they significant?
- Did all my words do some good to someone?
If I can’t say “Yes,” it’s time to change my vocabulary, or maybe I just need to speak fewer words.
October 20, 2010 at 8:35 am
Thanks for sharing this. It was valuable.
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October 20, 2010 at 2:09 pm
Good reminder. We need to strive to listen twice as much as we speak. That is a challenge to me. However, if I really do that, I am far less likely to speak those idle words to which you are referring. Instead, I may glean a greater insight into another person’s situation and give words of encouragement, counsel or playfulness that are far more beneficial.
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