…Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: that we be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: from whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
Ephesians 4:13-16
truth in love
Tongues of Hatred
“A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.” Proverbs 26:28 (KJV)
There is much said about “Hate speech” in today’s culture here in the United States of America. “Hate speech” seems to be a code term used to try and convince people that if you do not agree with someone then you are accused of using “hate speech” as a way of silencing you.
This proverb is the truth. I wrote yesterday of the worth of truth, and today of a lying tongue. The individual; the man, the woman, the boy or girl who speaks continual lies is a hater; using hate speech to further their own ends.
The lying tongue hates those whom they are lying to. They especially hate those who are brave, bold, courageous, and loving enough to confront them about their lies.
On the matter of the “Flattering mouth” we have probably all been guilty of flattery of some kind. Flattery is sometimes used to be kind. It is often used to try and obtain from another something we want.
Flattering mouths work ruin; first for the individual speaking it; then, also the one to whom they are speaking it.
We must remember the tongue is a powerful instrument. It holds the power of life and death.
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” Proverbs 18:21
We would all be better to love one another; speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), than to lie. We may offend some with the truth, but we cannot truly be accused of hate speech speaking the truth. Truth gives life. Life comes to us from God the Father sending His Son Jesus to die on the cross for us sins, His burial, and His bodily resurrection.
Believe Him. He is the truth.
The Fire and Hammer 