"Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit said to them: "Rulers and elders of the people!" Acts 4:8
When filled with the Holy Spirit we speak with authority, confidence and "biblicity". What we say should not contradict His Word, nor misrepresent His character. Of course this is dicey, because we are still human. But, as a rule we should always be conscientious of what we say, being careful to be true, respectful and appropriate. We can call something what it is without being rude
Peter addresses his listeners with dignity. We can always make the case for Christ without character assassination or cruelty. Speaking the truth in love as it were, is always our goal. Even if we are drawing boundaries, laying down the law, or sharing the gospel.
Sometimes it is tempting to speak from a high horse when we quote the Word of God or are speaking on behalf of His purposes. True, sometimes a point needs to be made with an exclamation mark, as in this passage, but we can be emphatic without being bellicose. Peter was a regular guy, yet he spoke with power and truth because he let the Holy Spirit speak through him. A good practice would be to seek God earnestly before saying important things. Probably would save us a lot of wasted breath and spare our listeners from unnecessary pain.
Choosing my words more carefully and prayerfully today,
Pastor Fred
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