Nothing concealed

I try not to be worried about what I don't understand but rejoice in what I do understand.  For instance, in the Epistle of James we’re warned to “bridle the tongue”, the cause of much evil. (James 1:26)   We’re told to keep a watch over what we say because we speak out of the fullness of our hearts.  Idle words and hurtful words are reflective of the state of our hearts.

Christ impresses on those of us who follow Him the significance of all our actions (Luke 12:1-7).  He said that "There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed." (Luke 12:2)

This statement should be obvious to us as we realize that God knows everything; "even the hairs on our head are numbered." (Luke 12:7)

Jesus tells us that “whatever is spoken in darkness will be heard in the light, proclaimed from the housetops.” (Luke 12:3)   When St. James tells us to bridle our tongues, he doesn’t mean merely when we’re talking to others, but when we’re talking to ourselves as well.  We’re not to bear false witness even in the privacy of our own heads.  We’re not to "speak" ill of anyone by words or by thoughts.  We’re not allowed the luxury of silent lips and active mind.  What we speak in the darkness of our own minds will be heard aloud by God.  How many times do we think something that, if we were to hear it aloud, we would be absolutely mortified?

I have to admit that I’m really bad about this.  It seems that too many times in a single day when reading something on social media or in a newspaper—or even driving in heavy traffic—I find myself saying something under my breath that I would be ashamed to say out loud. 

This is what Jesus cautions us against.  How can we keep so close a watch over what we say?  It's actually pretty easy when our focus is right.  Why would we want to say anything at all about other people (save good things) if our focus is on loving God?  Why would we worry about what’s said in darkness if Christ is our Light?  If we follow Jesus' admonition, "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33), we'll find little cause to clamp down on stray thoughts, because all of our thoughts will belong to Him, just as all of His thoughts are of His love for us: “Do not be afraid.  You are worth more than many sparrows." (Luke 12:7)

 Our gift of free will holds us accountable for our actions.  Let’s use that gift for the glory of God!