Words are the Outflow of Our Heart

"For whatever is in your heart determines what you say."

Matthew 12:34 

There is a saying that our words and actions are out thought life turned inside out.  Jesus tells us that our words are determined by our hearts.  Whatever we say and do, is a direct result of our heart condition.  If we have a healthy heart, one that is spiritually in tune with the Lord, then our outflow of words and deeds will be a reflection of that.  If our heart isn't healthy, then, logically, our words and deeds will quite obviously reveal that as well.

There are some people whose actions and words immediately speak to the true state of their hearts - good and bad.  There are others in which their words may mask the true state of their heart, but eventually, their true state will be revealed.  They can't keep up the masquerade for long without the outflow of their words revealing the who they are on the inside.

Currently, I am dealing with a situation in which someone whom I'd admired for most of life used some very cutting and negative remarks that personally attacked my children and my husband.  Not only did that get my dander up, it also cut me to the core.  This person knew their words were emotional daggers digging ever so deeply into my heart.  In the heat of this discussion, I could have really let loose on this person, but I didn't.  I prayed that I would respond in a godly way, so that I wouldn't later regret anything I said.  In fairness, this person's motivation was intended for good, but their words reflected what they really thought about my husband, our children, my parents, brothers, and sister.  This person's words were like a slap in the face.  They stung and they were unfounded.  Their words were not thought out, they were an overflow from their heart - revealing their true nature.

Sure, we all make mistakes and as believers, we are to forgive.  Thankfully, this situation will see resolution.  This person has expressed a desire to get with me to apologize and reconcile.  They indicated they realize that they have deeply hurt me.  I've already forgiven.  I don't hold a grudge.  And I am thankful that we'll have an opportunity to make this situation right.  However, we are going to have to lovingly confront some of the things this person said as this seems to be a recurrent event.

Here's the moral of the story...there will be those in our lives whose words and actions hurt us.  They are a reflection of the heart.  Sometimes, we may be that person.  However, before we get our dander up, let us realize that how we respond is also a reflection of our hearts.  Ask God to help you consider your words and actions, for them to be a reflection of Him in all circumstances. 

Remember that from a spiritually healthy heart flows healthy words and deeds!  Reflect Him today!

In His Love, Cathy
PS - This person is not anyone most of you know:-)