“I don’t speak on my own authority. The Father who sent me has commanded me what to say and how to say it.  And I know his commands lead to eternal life; so I say whatever the Father tells me to say.” ~Jesus (John 12:49-50)

Jesus was so attuned to the Father that He didn’t speak one word unless his Father gave him permission. And when he didn’t know what to say, he took time to doodle in the sand until he heard His message. He kept everyone waiting as he waited on God. And not only did he speak the words God gave him, he spoke them in the tone and with the body language and gestures that God gave him.

Experts tell us that about 70% of the message we hear is communicated through body language. Words make up only about 30% of communication.

Moses spoke God’s words once with a few minor adjustments and with the wrong body language, and it cost him entrance into the Promised Land. If we will learn to speak rightly, we will find our way to the land of promise. That joyful, abundant life is waiting for us at the other side of obedience. Jesus was smart. He knew that following God’s words would lead to “eternal life”, the God kind of life that He desires all people to discover.

Father,

God of all wisdom, grant me some! I so often spout off with my mouth; I repent and choose to listen and follow you intently, not only what to say but how to say it. Frame up every word I speak and give me an ability to speak the truth in love to every person I meet today. 

Amen

Does anyone want to live a life
that is long and prosperous?
Then keep your tongue from speaking evil
and your lips from telling lies! Psalm 34:12,13