Watch your words

“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”

Proverbs 31:26

Do you like to people watch? Do you ever try to guess what their life is like? You can learn a lot about a person by watching them. You can also learn a lot about yourself. The other day was one of those times that I learned a lot.

I was enjoying my soft pretzel while watching people in line. One family, in particular, jumped out at me. It was a Mom and her two daughters. Their shoulders were slumped and they were anxious to eat. As they discussed what they were getting, the Mom growled: “We are only getting one strawberry shake and you will share it.” The girls didn’t accept the answer very well which only escalated the Mom’s anger. I looked down at my food and tried to block out their conversation.

A few minutes later, I looked up at the cashier when I heard some laughter. Guess who I saw? That same Mom! She was so kind and lighthearted with the cashier. Her countenance had totally changed. After paying and walking off to the side, I could see the irritation come out. I once again watched the older daughter shrink before my eyes. The words her Mom spoke to her probably felt justified but weren’t necessary. The sadness in the girl’s eyes was so evident and I really wanted to reach out to her.

Challenged

At that moment, the Holy Spirit whispered to my heart. “Aren’t you just like that Mom sometimes?” I was challenged, convicted and found myself repenting. In fact, just yesterday, I lost my cool with my son in public all because he asked the same question twice. Was that really necessary? No.

I felt that Mom’s irritation and frustration because I have been there. She reminded me so much of myself. I let kid’s behaviors or attitudes get to me too much. They annoy me and then I react in frustration or anger. I feel justified in how I act. But, in reality, I need to be watching my words and attitude with my kids. I need to respond in love and have faithful instruction.

Would I talk to the cashier the same way I just talked to my kids? No way! Then, why do I think I have the right to talk to my kids that way? I would much rather kids get the side of me that is pleasant.  I would much rather be known to my kids as a kind, loving, and patient person.

How about you? Do you watch your words?

Heavenly Father, I need You to help me watch my words. I want my children to get my best and speak to them as I would speak to a cashier. When I open my mouth, I want to speak with wisdom and have faithful instruction on my tongue. Holy Spirit, please guide me. Help me to hold my tongue when I need to. Please help me to show love with my words. In Jesus name, Amen.