Words Matter: Trapped

“An evil man is trapped by his sinful talk, but a righteous man escapes trouble.” (Proverbs 12:13)

None of us like to feel like we’re missing out. That’s one of the reasons sin continues to tempt us. Why should we take that thing off our list of options right now just because it’s “wrong”? What if that thing – a lie, a cruel word, a little immorality, striking back in anger – what if that’s exactly what would make us feel so much better? Why box ourselves in?

words_350But the temptation is a lie. Sin always turns out to be its own dead end. We think of sin as tearing down roadblocks when really we’re setting them up, cutting ourselves off from escape, limiting our freedom.

Today’s proverb says we do it with our words. With a lie, with gossip, with a hurtful remark, we limit the people we can turn to for help. We eliminate options that more positive, helpful words would have opened up. Then – when things get serious – we’re trapped.

Think: Have you ever felt trapped by your own sinful words? What’s the best way to get out of a trap like that?

Pray: Ask God to help you to find greater freedom by refusing to sin with your words.

Do: Watch this week to see how people box themselves into unpleasant situations with sinful words.