Matthew 12:36-37 ESV I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give an account of every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.
Careless words are a window to our heart. When we are careful with our speech we know the right words to say. When we are at work or in church most of us pay attention to what we say and how we say it. Since we are monitoring our words, our speech is appropriate to create the image we wish to portray. It is when we speak carelessly that is telling to our true selves.
When you are having fun with a group of friends, what does your humor sound like? What are the topics of conversation? Would you tell the same joke to your pastor or discuss the same matters with the people in your Sunday School class? When you are angry, or sad, or in pain, or frightened does your speech glorify God?
Everything in the Bible must be taken in the context of the whole Bible. Just reading these two verses one could assume that what we say will determine our eternal fate. However, the Bible makes it clear that it is our relationship with God that determines our eternal destiny. But our careless words are a good indicator of what is in our heart.
A relationship with God is transforming. It refines us getting the dross out of our heart and lives. Our relationship with God should conform us into the image of Jesus (Romans 8:29, 2 Corinthians 3:18). If our careless words show that our heart isn’t transforming, it is time to examine our hearts and consider just what our relationship with God is.
Heavenly Father, make me into the man You want me to be. Create in me a clean heart that results in pure and edifying speech.