Today's Reading:
Matthew 14,15,16
Scripture
Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach and is expelled? But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. These are what defile a person. But to eat with unwashed hands does not defile anyone." (Matthew 15:17-20)
Observation
Jesus was responding to the complaint that his disciples didn’t follow the tradition of washing and cleansing their hands before eating. Jesus’ profound response is so clear that it isn’t what we put in our mouths that can be defiled, but rather what comes from our mouth in our words which is usually representative of what’s in our heart.
Application
This is a great reminder that I desire to cleanse my heart through God’s word and time with Him in prayer that whatever thoughts and subsequent worship come from my mouth will be edifying and building up rather than tearing down. Basically, we often say in Hawaii “no talk stink.” I cannot let part hurts or offenses affect how I speak to others.
Prayer
Dear Lord, please cleanse and mold my heart so that I will edify you and others who. I speak. Even if it is subtle. May my words be pure from you Lord, and not from an unforgiving and vengeful heart. May my heart be worn on my sleeves through my words inspired by the Holy Spirit.
