“Are you a doctor?”
I hesitated to answer. We were eating a meal at a restaurant when our server stopped at our table and posed this question. I was unsure where this was leading but thought there may be a medical emergency.
“Uh yes. Why do you ask?”
“Oh I overheard you use the term ‘cc’. I only know doctors who use that term.”
I smiled and looked at my friend who was sitting across from me, who was also a doctor. We were sharing a delightful bottle of wine and I only had a few drops left in my glass. He offered to refill my glass and I pushed it toward him, “Sure, I only have a cc left.” Our server was approaching our table when he heard my comment.
I do not go around advertising that I am a physician but as this encounter demonstrated, there are times when my speech and/or behavior betrays me. As flattering as that encounter was, I wish there were more times when my speech would lead others to ask whether I was a Christian. There is a Christian adage that poses the question that if there was a trial, would there be enough evidence to convict you as a Christian? Regrettably, I do not think I would be convicted.
I tell you that on the day of judgment people will have to account for every careless word they speak. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.
Matthew 12:36-37 (CSB)
This stern admonition from our Lord Jesus Christ reminds us that every word we have ever spoken or will speak is known by God. Like the casual encounter at the restaurant or defending one’s faith in a world that is increasingly hostile to Christians, our words do matter. I pray that I will be more mindful and careful about my speech, using it to be light and salt to all hearers.
No foul language should come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear.
Ephesians 4:29 (CSB)
Amen!
Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.
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