Did your momma ever tell you “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say nothin’ at all”???

Jentezen Franklin really rocked my world at the Creative Church Conference last week.

He opened up the conference speaking on how Christians MUST “de-horn” each other and learn what mercy is. We like to think that “we” are right and “they” are wrong. So we draw horns on “them.”

The tongue is the greatest and worst thing in the world. Or, in our case sometimes, the keyboard. I couldn’t help but think about the bloggers that have nothing better to do than sit around and bash churches who are really going after people far from God, like we do at The Connection Church.

Then something Jentezen said (I don’t even remember what it was) made me realize “wait a second! I’m a j-e-r-k too.” I don’t do it on the blog, but I do tear other Christ followers down at times when I am with certain people.

Then, this morning, I read this verse from Paul:

“But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.”  -Philippians 1:18

My friend Anne said it this way a while back:

“Suck up the pride, bite your tongue, and listen to your momma. If you can’t say something nice, don’t say nothin’ at all. People will know us by the love we have for each other. Remember that.”

Ouch.

God, teach me to say something nice.

I want to be known for what I am FOR, not what I am against.