“…But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground. But when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. And again he stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground. And they, when they heard it, went out one by one, beginning from the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman, where she was, in the midst.” John 8:6-9

For years we’ve heard the notion that “Nice guys finish last” and in many instances this seems to be true. Our society loves drama, the proof is in the ratings of nationally syndicated radio shows and reality television. Even before reality tv came along, millions of viewers gathered around their television sets to watch Soap Operas during the day. We are drawn to seeing others fail, we rush to hear the juiciest gossip, and we wait to watch an innocent soul get destroyed by a verbal assault. 

But for Christians, this can’t be a part of our nature. Somewhere we must draw the line and defend our shortcoming without destroying others with our choice of words. If I was in church, at this moment, I would tell you to, “Lean on your neighbor and tell’em, Speak Life!” Though we may live in a brutal society, surrounded by negativity, insults, and harsh words, take the time to study your words before speaking and help build people to be better. Teach before you tear down, show before you shout, Listen before you release a barrage of language that will leave a lasting scar. 

Jesus was brought a negative report on a woman who was caught in a sinful act. He could have spoken a word to destroy her, brought light to her faults, or created a standard of hatred for those who have made a mistake. But Jesus chose to deal gracefully with the situation and didn’t allow the moment to entertain those seeking to involve him in the drama of the day. Jesus took the time to evaluate the situation and present a loving solution to a deadly problem, in other words He spoke life. 

Saints of God, let take the time to speak to others, the way we would desire to be spoken to. The Bible reminds us that the power of life and death is in our tongue. Speak life and watch the situation turn around. Speak life and see the atmosphere change. Speak life and know that God is pleased because you showed the grace and love of a living God, so continue to speak life!!

Richard D. Hayes is the Pastor of New Day Community Church and the President of the United Ministerial Alliance.