"Shooting from the Lip"

“Shooting from the Lip”

 

The gunfights which marked the lawlessness of the American West in the latter part of the nineteenth century (at least if the movies depicting this period are to be believed) gave rise to the expression “shooting from the hip”. It refers to getting off a shot without raising the gun to aim and hoping for the best as quickness trumped accuracy. Over the years it found its way into our nation’s vernacular as a way to describe a hasty decision made by words and/or deeds without considering the possible consequences. The results of such thoughtless actions have negatively impacted families, businesses, churches, and many other areas of our lives, sometimes causing irreparable damage.

One of my high school teachers posted a sign on the bulletin board which told us, “Be sure brain is engaged before putting mouth in gear.” To state this principle in another way, “Beware of shooting from the lip.” Because accuracy is often sacrificed by impetuous words it’s the verbal equivalent of bullets flying from Colt .45’s.

Scripture frequently warns of the dangers of careless speech (aka shooting from the lip). It can take the form of slander (“…Whoever slanders is a fool.”—Proverbs 10:18), gossip (“Listening to gossip is like eating cheap candy; do you really want junk like that in your belly?”—Proverbs 18:8, The Message), lying (“The Lord detests lying lips….”—Proverbs 12:22), and judgment (“…Who are you to judge your neighbor?”—James 4:12) to name a few. Our Lord’s brother also states, “The tongue…corrupts the whole person….” (James 3:6). So much for the assertion of some that talk doesn’t matter! Besides which we’ll be held accountable for our words (“…Men will have to give an account on the Day of Judgment for every careless word they have spoken.”—Matthew 12:36).

Contrast the above with God’s directives for the proper use of speech. It’s to be “…always full of grace….” (Colossians 4:6), “…in love….” (Ephesians 4:15), “…sweet to the soul….” (Proverbs 16:24), and “…aptly spoken….” (Proverbs 25:11). Think of the differences which would be made in families, churches, and the world if God’s words were taken seriously and practiced!

So the next time I’m tempted to shoot from the lip may I pray with David, “Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” (Psalm 141:3). Will you join me?

Blessings!

Jim McMillan