These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.” Colossians 2:23 NKJV
I struggle almost daily with a wayward tongue. My knee-jerk responses have gotten me into trouble more than once and caused untold grief. Like most people, I am prone to making excuses. “I was tired, I was stressed, I didn’t mean it, really!” I’ve tried praying (can’t hide in the chapel all day), contemplated fasting to renew my spirit (that doesn’t last either–how DOES one do that??), and of course the usual recourse of self-help, searching scriptures, and so on. There’s a constant thought of “I’ve messed up my witness.” Brokenness consumes me with guilt. I think “maybe if I do such-and-such, it will help.” Paul’s words to the Colossians in chapter 3 continue:
…Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. (vs.2)
…And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.”
Ah, there it is again–a reminder to be thankful. So, yes, I will be thankful for those moments when I pause to think before speaking; and thankful for learning from the times that I didn’t. Because Christ forgave me, I need to forgive others–and myself. And move on.
In this Lenten season, may your walk become closer to Jesus as you focus on Him.
And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Colossians 3:17
Labyrinth, Ideas, and Wanderings 