I can’t help but wonder if we’re living in a world where words are becoming increasingly utilitarian. That is, words are viewed not as something that reflects who you are, but rather something that you use. Such a view treats speech like a tool to get what you want, whether it is clicks on a video, getting elected, or getting attention on social media.

Plenty of people have commented to the effect that we are living in a post-truth era of national politics. But I would like to point out that we may be living in a post-heart era of speech.

Jesus is clear. Your speech is an overflow of your heart. This is unavoidable, even for hypocrites. Even the Pharisees, whose hypocrisy Jesus repeatedly condemned, were not always able to disguise their sinful hearts with righteous speech. Just read Matthew 12. Listening to what someone says is the closest you or I will ever get to seeing someone’s heart. If this is not the case, then verses like James 3:2 don’t really make much sense to me.

When you use words, you’re not merely wielding a tool. You’re holding a mirror. Hopefully you’ll find Jesus staring back at you.