Put Your Foot in It

We must be careful what we say concerning one another. When we have influence, the words that we say carry weight with those around us. Leaders must be especially careful concerning revelations made in the presence of impressionable people. Personal disagreements, dislikes, and preferences can grow into a larger offense if we are careless about how we conduct ourselves. What may begin as a disagreement between two people can quickly grow into a war in our midst.

Dance ministers are often in front of the congregation and assume influential positions in the church whether we accept it or not. We are recognized often, even when it is not brought to our attention. We are constantly being watched. Children and teenagers are especially vulnerable to the desire to want to be accepted and affiliated with people that are popular. When we engage in casual conversation, we may forget that what we say may be overheard by someone else. We can avoid this by maintaining appropriate conversation at all times. Regardless of who is listening, the Lord hears every single word we say.

This does not mean that we are robots and actors that cannot share our hurts, pains, and struggles. We should not turn offenses into a personal crusade to tarnish the character of others with whom we may no longer be in fellowship. Setting a guard over our mouths will also keep the door open for reconciliation to take place. When we are careless and operate out of our feelings instead of the Word, we will end up "putting our foot in our mouths."

Psalm 37:30-31 (NKJV)
The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of justice. The law of his God is in his heart; None of his steps shall slide.

Proverbs 21:23 (NKJV)
Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from troubles.

Luke 6:45 (NKJV)
A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

Titus 3:1-2 (NKJV)
Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.