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IDLE WORDS

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International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Apr 22, 1889

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 15, No. 16.

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IDLE WORDS.

If a pebble is dropped into a smooth body of water, the circle extends to the furthest shore. Throw it into the air, and, according to the laws of attraction, the earth is drawn towards it. Everything has its influence to a greater or less degree. Words are little things, but have a great effect for good or evil; "for by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned." The wise man has said, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver." James says, "If any man offend not in word the same is a perfect man." How many idle words are spoken none can tell, even among those who profess to be followers of Christ. Paul admonishes us not to have foolish talking or jesting among us. Eph. 5:4.
I was acquainted with a minister who was very much given to jesting and foolish talking. He caused much trouble in a family. As the sister read these verses for the morning lesson, she wept, saying, "I knew all the time it was so written, but I thought he could not do wrong, that he was pure as an angel;" and yet his foolish talking was plainly manifest.
A man under deep conviction sought counsel of a minister. While in their conversation, a fast horse passed by. The minister said, "That is a nice stepper."
The man said, "I thought if that was all he cared about my soul, he did not think religion was very valuable." Only one idle word, what mischief it may do! Its influence will be felt as long as time lasts; and in the Judgement, man shall give account thereof. In the language of the psalmist let us pray: "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer." "O Lord, open thou my lips, and my mouth shall show forth thy praise;" and keep me from speaking idle words.—Selected.