This has been my prayer the last couple weeks as I've had conversations with friends who've hurt me, with my husband who has disappointed me, with my kids who have driven me crazy with their disobedience and disrespect…"Father, whenever I open my mouth, may my words speak the gospel."
What does that mean - "make known the mystery of the gospel?" The gospel is more than believing that Christ died, was buried, and resurrected. It's more than just our get out of hell free card - it's what sustains us from day to day, hour to hour, minute to minute. Because we've been forgiven we can forgive. Because Christ died and rose, conquering death, we have His power, love, and righteousness at our disposal.
So my prayer becomes - "Father, may every word that comes out of mouth be forgiving, grace-filled, loving, empowering, merciful, encouraging, and glorifying YOU, not me."
Notice that the verse says, "whenever I open my mouth." That means EVERY last word! Not only the words I speak but the words I type in an email or on facebook or in a text message. Every word I communicate is to be forgiving, gracious, merciful. This realization has gradually changed how I respond when I'm tempted to come unglued. I have Christ's power to give grace, His words of love and forgiveness, His Holy Spirit strengthening me to do and say the right thing.
This is my prayer for you too, my dear friends!!