A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Matthew 12:35-37
These verses are found only in Matthew. Jesus explained that words matter—each person will have to give an account for every careless word. The word “careless” refers to words that we might consider insignificant or innocuous. “Careless” means inactive, idle, worthless. This can refer to mindless small talk or off-color jokes, but also to broken promises, unkept commitments, and unpaid vows. Such words are better indicators of a person’s true character than his or her carefully planned and prepared statements and speeches.
Your Words Will Bring Judgement
No word is insignificant to God, because every spoken word reveals what is in the heart. Because God knows our hearts, our words are vitally important to him. Words will be a basis for judgment because words reveal who a person truly is: “For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
If your parents ever told you to “watch your mouth,” it might have sounded silly at the time but it was good advice. If they ever washed your mouth out with soap there was probably a good reason for it. If you mother ever laid a switch across your bare legs (mine did) because your language was inappropriate you most likely deserved it. If God picks up His switch to correct your language, be thankful for He still loves you, but don’t put yourself in such a position in the first place—watch your mouth. Amen?
