Out of the Abundance of the Heart

Daily Devotional – Monday, March 28, 2022

For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.

Matthew 12:34 (NKJV)

I know a politician who habitually utters unprintable against his opponents. He seems not to care what his wife, children, parents and friends think about his insults. Sometimes, I think he is not in control of his tongue.

According to Jesus, hurtful words are not the actual problem. Insults are symptoms of a more serious underlying problem. It has to do with the heart – in actual sense – the mind.

For out of the Abundance of the Heart the Mouth Speaks

Jesus, using the analogy of a tree and its fruits, addressed the issue as follows: “Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree bad and its fruit bad; for a tree is known by its fruit.” (Matthew 12:33).

If we harbor evil thoughts and motives, our words will mixed with the same poison, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Verse 34).

Paul identifies the solution to this predicament. He urges, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2).

Meditate on These Things

Here is another passage on where the work of mind transformation must start:
“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” (Philippians 4:8).

Prayer
Lord Jesus, cleanse my mind that my words may edify those who hear them.