Text: Matthew 5:37 NKJV
Further Reading: Matthew 5:33-37
But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.
Matthew 5:37 NKJV
MESSAGE
One common way by which people dishonour God today is swearing by His name. Many even use God’s name as curse words. Many people have sworn falsely by the name of God and they refused to hallow the name of God.
Jesus said in our reading of the day to believers, don’t swear at all. You must be straightforward in your conversation. The Bible also commanded that we should not take the name of God in vain; for the Lord will not hold anyone that takes His name in vain guiltless (Exodus 20:7).
Your life as a believer must be different from others. You can not live by the ways and standards of the world. Don’t forget that worldly people are also holding you to this standard. You can imagine a child of God swearing by the Holy name of God. It does not speak well of us.
The Bible says that our speech should not only be straightforward but also filled with grace and seasoned with salt. If you are truly the salt of the earth then your lifestyle must season people’s life. Apart from speaking the truth at all times, no vulgar or idle words must be found in your mouth.
Believers should not be caught in the web of gossip and backbiting. We are called to represent our Lord as His ambassador (2 Corinthians 5:20). In any circumstance, our speech must be Yes or No, whatever is more than that is sin.
Always clothe yourself with the garment of righteousness. You are expected to speak the truth at all times. Speaking lies will only bring shame to you and dishonour to God. Let every one that is named after the name of Christ depart from dishonouring God with their mouth.
Jesus said of the false prophets that they will be known by their fruit, likewise, a believer is known by his/her fruits (Matthew 7:30). You cannot have Christ and speak like devils You cannot claim to honour God and dishonour Him by using His name falsely or cursing with His name.
You must learn in all things to talk straight. Don’t allow anything to tarnish your walk with God. In all things speak the word of God to situations and live by the principles of God. Let your light shine for all to see and they glorify your Father in heaven.
REFLECTION
But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your “Yes” be “Yes,” and your “No,” “No,” lest you fall into judgment.
James 5:12 NKJV
Refusal to honour God in your speech will only land you into divine judgment. Trust God to help you speak the truth and rightly in all situations.
PRAYER
Father, please help me to honour you in my speech always.
