Charles Simeon on Christian Speech
One of the most difficult disciplines of the Christian life is guarding our speech. The way we speak about others is a clear indicator of our own spiritual condition. Ultimately, what comes out of our mouths reveals the character of our hearts.
The Bible warns us of the tongue's dangers. James writes, "The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell" (James 3:6). But we also know the good our tongues can do as we use them "to give grace to those who hear," and as our speech is used to "spur one another on toward love and good deeds" (Ephesians 4:29, Hebrews 10:24). The tongue is a mighty force. Will you use it for good or evil?
One of my Christian heroes is Charles Simeon, Anglican minister of Holy Trinity Church in Cambridge, England from 1782-1836. (For a thoughtful biographical sketch of Simeon’s life, view this article by John Piper). Throughout his adult life he contended with two great temptations to ungodly speech. On the one hand, he was quick to anger, and in the heat of the moment was tempted to say things that could damage the reputation of Christ and his church. On the other hand, he continually faced unkind criticism because of his deep commitment to the evangelical faith. What a volatile situation: a disposition prone to anger combined with a hostile environment!
Well aware of the temptation to "evil speaking," Simeon wrote in a July 1817 letter words immediately relevant to parish life today.
"The longer I live, the more I feel the importance of adhering to the rules which I have laid down for myself in relation to such matters.
"1st To hear as little as possible what is to the prejudice of others.
"2nd To believe nothing of the kind till I am absolutely forced to it.
"3rd Never to drink into the spirit of one who circulates an ill report.
"4th Always to moderate, as far as I can, the unkindness which is expressed towards others.
"5th Always to believe, that if the other side were heard a very different account would be given of the matter.
"I consider love as wealth; and as I would resist a man who should come to rob my house so would I a man who would weaken my regard for any human being."
Let us renew our own commitment to making our speech a means of God's grace. Let us join the Psalmist in praying, "Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips" (Psalm 141:3).
0 comments:
Post a Comment