There Is Much Pending on our Words.
By Daniel T. Bourdeau
“By thy words,” says Christ, “thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” This will take place in the Judgment. How careful, then, we should be here, that our words may be such that we shall not fear to meet them in that dread day toward which we are fast approaching. Very often the course and salvation of those around us depend on our words. The case of the ten spies who brought back from the land of Canaan an evil report illustrates this truth. The Israelites had come to an important point in their history. An encouraging report from these spies, in connection with the cheering testimony of Caleb and Joshua, would doubtless have influenced the masses of the children of Israel to press forward and enter the promised land. But, unfortunately, at this critical moment, the ten spies, through fear and unbelief, spoke discouragingly, and shut the greater part of the congregation from the land of promise. These things are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. 1 Cor. 10:11. We are called upon to bear an encouraging testimony to those around us. Our words will prove to many a savor of life or of death. Especially is this true in our social meetings. The tongue can there be a tree of life, whose fruit is strengthening and encouraging. It can be refreshing, like a fountain of pure water, to the thirsty soul, or it can be used unwisely in expressing fear, doubt, and discouragement, and lead weak souls to forsake the narrow way and enter the broad path that leads to death. Let us then take heed to our ways that we sin not with our words. D. T. BOURDEAU.