But I tell you, on the day of judgment people will have to give an accounting for every careless or useless word they speak.
Matthew 12:36 AMP
The term “idle word” as rendered in the KJV, refers to careless, thoughtless, or unproductive speech. These are words spoken without consideration of their impact or truthfulness. Jesus emphasised that people will account for their words. This accountability isn’t just for overtly harmful or malicious speech but extends to all forms of idle, frivolous, careless, useless or irresponsible words.
Think of the irresponsible, careless, or unnecessary words you have uttered. It might be during casual conversation, moments of excitement, or in giving misguided advice. These are examples of idle words as described in the Bible. Whether it’s impulsive declarations, complaints against God, deceitful speech, or misguided advice, God disapproves of such speech. So, He will hold everyone accountable for their words.
Consider the life of Job and his friends. Despite intending to console Job, they misguided him with their words. Eliphaz, for instance, says in Job 4:7-8 (NIV), “Consider now: Who, being innocent, has ever perished? Where were the upright ever destroyed? As I have observed, those who plow evil and those who sow trouble reap it.” Eliphaz wrongly implies that Job’s suffering is due to his sin, which is a careless judgment without understanding the true context of Job’s trials.
God responds in Job 42:7: “After the Lord had spoken these words to Job, the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite, ‘My anger burns against you and against your two friends, for you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has.'” God rebuked Job’s friends for their idle words and required a sacrifice from them to escape His wrath.
The lesson here is clear: as believers, we must be intentional about every word we speak. We must avoid corrupt communication and speak words that edify and minister grace to the hearers.
In conclusion, the Bible emphasises the significance of our spoken words’ spiritual and moral weight. Jesus teaches that every careless or thoughtless word will be subject to divine scrutiny on the day of judgment, highlighting the importance of speaking responsibly and thoughtfully. Other scriptures also echo this teaching, such as James 3:5-6, which emphasizes the destructive potential of the tongue. So also, Proverbs 18:21, speaks to the life-and-death power of words. Ephesians 4:29 encourages believers to use words that edify and impart grace, while Proverbs 10:19 advises wisdom in restraining speech to avoid sin.
Our words hold significant weight, both spiritually and morally. By speaking thoughtfully and responsibly, we honour God and edify others, avoiding the pitfalls of idle words. Let us commit to using our speech to uplift and inspire, reflecting the love and wisdom of God in all we say.
