How Words Make or Break a Legacy

Words can make or break all your good intentions for serving God. So let's check in to see if we're building a legacy of faith or one we'll regret.

Most people like to talk, either about themselves or about others. This is normal. A discussion can't go very deep unless it involves your opinions.

And it's in the sharing of opinions where you get in the most trouble. 

God eavesdrops on your conversations. And he takes notes.

Then those who feared the LORD talked with each other, and the LORD listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the LORD and honored his name."They will be mine," says the LORD Almighty, "in the day when I make up my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as in compassion a man spares his son who serves him. And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not" (Malachi 3:16-18 NIV).

Scary—God detects whether you serve Him or not based on what you talk about!And what you talk about...those simple words make or break your journey of faith.

Words Make or Break - Checklist

Here's a few quick questions to run through your mind the next time you're chatting with a friend. Or your spouse.

• Does my motive for having this conversation please the Lord? 
• Would I hesitate to say these things if Jesus was physically standing next to me?
• Am I honoring the Lord by my tone of voice?
• Am I talking about something that is none of my business?

I know. I know. We usually don't think of these things until after the conversation is over. Then we either feel really ugly ... or we stuff it and hope for the best.

Repentance cleans up the past, and determination can shape the future.So give the checklist a go. Form a new habit. One that honors God and leaves you feeling pretty good about things after you finish chatting with a friend.Catch you later,Susan