Scripture: Judges 12:4-7
“And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech betrayeth thee”. Matthew 26:73 (KJV)
Feedback: Share how waiting on the Lord renewed your strength.
The people of Ephraim had their own regional pronunciation for the word ‘Shibboleth’ which means flowing stream or floods.
They pronounced it as Sibboleth and it cost them 42,000 lives.
In the same way, there is a manner of speaking that is meant for a Christian. Believers are admonished not to let filthiness, foolish talking or vulgar jokes become part of our vocabulary (Eph. 5:4). The language of the believer must be words that heal, uplift and encourage. When you engage in filthy and foolish talk, you put yourself in danger and leave the door open for the enemy to strike. People must be able to tell your identity by the words you speak.
The Bible records that people went up to Peter to confirm if he was one of Jesus’ followers because his accent gave him away (Matt. 26:73). Peter spoke like a disciple of Jesus and people soon recognized him to be one. Can people tell you are a Christian simply by listening to you? Do you speak words of faith and encouragement at all times or do you join the multitude to complain and grumble? Do you comfort others in time of sorrow or are you a miserable comforter like Job’s friends? Sibboleth takes lives but Shibboleth gives lives. May your accent, words, character and actions always speak Shibboleth and not Sibboleth.
Reflection: How can I guide my lips against filthy language?
PRAYER: Lord, let every word out of my lips honour you in Jesus name.
FAITH BYTE: My words are full of salt and are seasoned with grace.
This Week Walk of Faith: Speak life, find at least 2 people you can encourage in the Lord this week.
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