Author
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Topic: Words, Words, Words
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barrykind
Advanced Member
Member # 35
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posted
Yes as do i!
[Every IDLE WORD shall we give account] rings out with such warning...
Peter after being "saved" "born anew"; went on to fulfil the words of Paul:
"Til Christ be formed in you"
A lot can be gleaned from Peter's life..
Thanks for the insight..
-------------------- The HEART of the issue is truly the issue of the HEART! John 3:3;Mark 8:34-38;James 1:27
Posts: 3529 | From: Orange, Texas | Registered: Jun 2002
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KnowHim
Admin
Member # 1
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posted
Have you ever said too much? I stick my feet in my mouth so often that I have lost count of the number of shoes I have swallowed!
I observe the early scenes in Simon Peter's life and find it easy to relate to the times he blurted things out or occasions in which his speech did not match his character. I am there breathing the tension in the air and feeling the pain of hasty words. However, I don't often consider the times he got it right. And those vignettes beg to be pondered.
Think about the time Jesus saw Peter on the beach after the resurrection; Peter's speech was measured, thoughtful. He was slow to boast about his abilities or allude to any plans. He exhibited stark honesty regarding the condition of his heart. "Lord, You know. You know the depth of my love as well as past failures. You know I feel like going back to the only thing I know I can do-fishing." No brash bravado dripping from that admission.
Fast forward thirty years and we see an increased maturity. The aging disciple gives a number of encouragements. First, in dealing with others, he recommends putting aside speech that reeks of hatred, dishonesty, and envy. Secondly, he urges his readers to talk about what God has done. That's the best subject of all. Thirdly, Peter gives a word of caution to wives living in difficult situations, wives with husbands who are disobedient to the word. Quiet conduct may open the door. Peter suggests silence-- an incredibly different approach from someone who always had a blustery comment, regardless of propriety.
Finally, in still another place, Peter speaks of times when we are called on to defend the gospel. One would expect to hear the fisherman call for an attack; on the contrary, Peter urges a response of gentleness and humility. He endorses a blessing instead of insults.
Honest heart. Speech that matches character. Words that highlight God's accomplishments. Quiet living. Gentleness and humility. Blessing instead of insults.
Yes, I have a lot to learn from Peter. What about you?
See for Yourself:
John 21: 15-19; 1 Peter 2:1, 9; 1 Peter 3:1; 1 Peter 3; 8-9, 15.
Copyright 2002 Diane H. Pitts Danddpitts@earthlink.net www.dianehpitts.com
Eternal Ink Ministries http://www.eternal-ink.com
Posts: 3276 | From: Charlestown, IN | Registered: Jun 2002
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