THURSDAY, September 1

James 3:13—4:12. Do not speak evil against one another, brothers and sisters.

One of the women in the movie Steel Magnolias says, “If you can’t say something nice about somebody, come sit by me.” She’s not alone in savoring unkind gossip. Many of us are tempted to speak harshly about people with whom we disagree or dislike.

Our churches, our communities, our nation, and our world are characterized by shrill words from opponents. So-called “talking heads” fill television screens blasting each other with their talking points. Political campaigns are mostly assault strategies and public officials abuse the public trust with mean, partisan rhetoric. Radio talk shows and newspaper call-in columns are filled with angry people blaming someone else.

It is no wonder that little gets done for the common good, that missions fail, and ill-health is epidemic. When will it end?

The better question is, “When will a better way begin?” The best answer is, “With me, today. Today I shall not speak evil against another.”

PRAY for the Dioceses of Saskatchewan and Saskatoon (Rupert’s Land, Canada)

Ps 37:1-18 * 37:19-42; 1 Kings 11:1-13; Mark 15:12-21

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Say Some Kind Words To Someone Today

Sep 01, 2011 at 5:49 am

Written by emeline,

I concur with today's writer. We glory often in the fact that we are able to say mean things to people and about people. Does this really make us feel good? Of course not! Just think of your feelings after the harsh word are spoken? There is always a feeling of guilt/remorse. Do we take the words back or offer an apology? Always remember that words spoken cannot be retrieved. Hence, we must always think before we speak because unkind words hurt people in ways we will never understand. Let's make it our business to say a kind word to someone today, in fact EVERYDAY!

peace

Sep 01, 2011 at 6:45 am

Written by Bonnie Strickland,

Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me...

A complementary prayer

Sep 01, 2011 at 7:40 am

Written by Lynn,

One of my daily prayers: May I/you be a blessing to all who cross my/your path today.

Pause for God

Sep 01, 2011 at 8:03 am

Written by Mary kier,

This is my phrase I try to use for conversation as well as actions. Whoever I talk to or whatever decisions I make I try to remember to wait... Pause... and let God in.

...

Sep 01, 2011 at 8:43 am

Written by Peg,

To be the beginning of a better way... what a great idea for the start of this month so laden with memories of horror. It's a goal to strive for today and for the rest of my life.

AN UP-SIDE-DOWN FROWN

Sep 01, 2011 at 9:26 am

Written by Angela Duncan,

Words carry power, they can hurt or heal. In the book of Proverbs much is said about the way we use our words and this was written by the wisest man who ever lived, Solomon. Even by today's standards his wisdom far surpasses all. Proverbs 15:1-7 These verses talk about words that can bring life or crush the spirit, teach or deceive. It is good encourage others by revealing the good we see in them. Using words in this way is a faith builder and brings joy to those who hear them.

Words can break down or build up

Sep 01, 2011 at 10:36 pm

Written by Rick,

Our words can either break a person down or build a person up. But remember, it is a lot easier to break someone down by a mean word than it is to turn and try to build them up again. Use words of love to make others feel good about themselves.

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