The Defining Language

They say that the third time is the charm.
Twice I have started this post, twice I deleted it. It is as though I just can't seem to get out what I've been thinking. The right words just wont come...........

I guess I'll start with what has been running through my mind. I have been convicted about words. The words that I say, don't say, and even the words I think (you know those conversations you have in your mind with people you are upset with). Words define who you are. They inform the onlooker what is in  your heart. I have begun to wonder what my words say about me.........

I am from the west, and since I do not like the southern accent, I still sound like a westerner (except for the occasional 'ya'll'). In fact to me it doesnt even sound like I have an accent. But people can tell I am not from NC. Why? Because I don't talk like one. Fancy that!

When I go up to DC everyone can tell I grew up country and lived in a 'white' family (whom I adore, mind you). They can tell because I talk like it. My accent defines me.

Here in the south there are many variations of the southern accent. The upper class accent, the middle class accent, the redneck accent, and the black community has their own accent as well. Their accents define who they are/were, and they tell their history.

The same thing goes for the very words that I speak. They tell you a story. They tell you all about what kind of a woman I am.

The Bible says that "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." And I believe that is very true. You are what you do or do not say.

Words not only define who I am, but they define the people I come in contact with. My words impact them for forever. My words can be the rudder on their ship that turns it right or wrong. It is my choice.

It is up to me to decide how my words will be used. For good? Or for evil? Will my words impact someone for good? Or not? I get to make that choice.

I also get to decide just how my words are going to define me as a follower of Jesus Christ! And I get to decide how my words are going to represent Christ to someone who's faith has failed.

They say that we are God's hands and feet, but we are also His mouth peice!

The tongue is the instrument that can change the world for either good or bad! And it's up to us.