p. 48 | Our Conversation by A. S. Hutchins

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 17, 1857

Our Conversation.

By A. S. Hutchins

On this subject, repeated admonitions are found in the Bible. At times we feel in some degree the force of them, and the necessity of having our conversation in heaven, from whence we look for the Saviour. But at other times we neglect to watch our words, we indulge in light and trifling conversation, and as the result of so doing we find ourselves destitute of the Spirit of God, in a very great measure. We resolve, and re-resolve, but do not gain the desired victory.

But why not? Certainly not because the Lord is not ready to impart his grace to assist us in this effort. Certainly not because it is not pleasing to him that we obtain a complete and lasting victory over wrong words. But if we examine our efforts in this work, we shall undoubtedly find they have been too weak. We shall discover a lack of perseverance. David asks at one time, “What shall be given unto thee? or what shall be done unto thee, thou false tongue?” Ps. cxx, 3. In Psalm xxxix, he says, “I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.”

Again says David, “I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.” This strikes me as a purpose worthy to be adopted by all the remnant.

Says James, “If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.” Now as we all desire to be found, not with a vain, but a pure, religion, when the Saviour appeareth, let us each bridle our tongue, ever bearing in mind the blessed promise, “To him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God.” A. S. HUTCHINS. Parma, Mich.