I have always had trouble with the words I use in speech. I am an introvert and do not have strong social skills, making me feel awkward in social situations. So the words I say come out awkwardly and often don’t represent my real intentions.
I wonder if many people have the same difficulty. In fact, I think that is the cause of much hypocrisy that we observe. Under the pressure of the moment, people say things that don’t reflect their true nature. People often say what they think the listener wants to hear. Other times people speak about subjects that they don’t really know well. These things lead to a mismatch between spoken words and actions.
Generally we all know that we have to be careful with the things we say. This is true even more so today due to the easy access to information.
The apostle Paul covers this subject in instructions to his young apprentice, Titus. Titus 2:7 says, “Show yourself in all aspects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.”
From this verse I learn that the key to avoiding hypocrisy is to do good works. Then the good things I say will match the good works I do. Secondly, I should control my speech so that my words bear the marks of integrity, dignity and soundness, which no one can debate.
These two safeguards are difficult, if not impossible, for me to manage on my own. I will need help. Therefore I am asking God to help me and by His Spirit transform my words and actions. Join me in this quest to irradicate hypocrisy.
Reluctant Retiree 