BY MRS. M. E. STEWARD.
“BUT I say unto you that every idle word that men shall speak they shall give account thereof in the day of Judgment.” Matt. 12 : 36. It is not alone that “in the multitude of words there wanteth not sin.” Prov. 10 : 19. Our time, ourselves,—all is the Lord’s, to be used in his service. But we do , not use our moments for him, we positively waste them, when we indulge in unnecessary conversation, or in discussing plans or subjects which are not in some way beneficial to those who hear us or to ourselves. How much of our conversation would be silenced should we try it by this test!
Speech is a most precious talent, given us not to fold in a napkin, to be sure. When we make the “end of our conversation Jesus Christ,” “the same yesterday, to-day, and forever,” it is a “well-spring of life” to every one. “As he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” Then by the hope we have of being soon made like him, let us guard our conversation, praying, “Set a watch, 0 Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.” Ps. 141 : 3.
The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald March 4, 1884