Stewarding Our Words
(Jonathan Kong, Missionary Associate)
READ:
Zechariah 13 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
“What’s wrong with admitting to be a prophet?” This was one of my first thoughts when I first read Zechariah 13, especially when everyone knows one’s reputation and one even bears the marks (our wounds) of their vocation.
However, upon closer reading, I realised that the prophets who Zechariah was referring to were not those who heard and spoke God’s words to His people but those who led the people into idolatry and away from God (13:2). Reading this, I am reminded of the danger of false prophets, with Zechariah warning that a prophet who spread lies is to be put to death (13:3). While appearing harsh, this underlines the influence of a prophet’s words and how, through misdirection and deception, a false prophet can lead people away from God and to their deaths.
APPLY
While I may not claim to be a prophet, I am reminded on how my words, spoken at the right context, have the same power to either bring life or death. Looking at social media, I am surprised that even Facebook recognises the power behind words, introducing a “fact-check” function that issues a warning if it detects potential false statements or dubious claims being posted. While holding a great amount of influence, many who post “fake news” or inflammatory comments hide behind the veil of digital anonymity, allowing them to escape responsibility that false prophets in the time of Zechariah would not be able to escape.
Reflecting on this, today’s devotion is a warning for me to be aware of what I say, both face to face and on digital platforms. Because despite online anonymity, there is a God who sees me no matter how I hide (Hebrews 4:13) and will one day call me to account for every word said (Matthew 12:36).
And while many today proclaim that they know the way to truth, to liberation, to prosperity or to happiness, today’s chapter brings me hope that in the end we will all be refined by God through fire that will burn up all that is untrue, so that all who emerge will be counted as God’s people. This encourages me to ask God to search my heart and weed out thoughts and lies that are not of Him so that in the end I can emerge purified and pleasing to Him.
DO
Considering my observations of today’s chapter, my response would be to take greater care of what I say, knowing that my words have the power to build up or break down others who hear it. This is important particularly when I am facing difficult situations, feeling emotions such as anger or bitterness, or just feeling down as these are situations when careless words might escape from me. Just as 2 Corinthians 10:5 reminds us to hold our thoughts captive, I am reminded to hold my words captive as well.
I am also reminded that even as I witness for Christ, I am to bring the hope of Christ into a world where many are like sheep without a shepherd. This may involve comforting those who are troubled, giving advice to those who are confused and pointing them to Christ who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.
PRAY
Our Lord Jesus Christ, I confess that I am not always careful with my words. I confess that my words have hurt or discouraged others. I ask that You sanctify my words that they may be true, pure, lovely and admirable so that it may be used for Your purposes and for Your glory. Help me restrain my tongue particularly in difficult situations that I may worship You in my words. Help me, Father, also to be a beacon of hope in a world of darkness, to provide assurance to those who are troubled, provide clarity to those who are confused, and in all things may I point them to You who is the Way and the Light. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.
