1. By not talking inconsiderately, and by bearing in mind that we have to give an account of every idle word we speak (Matt, xii. 36); and 2. By keeping our heart free from ambition, envy, hatred, vengeance, etc.
1. ' He that keepeth his mouth, keepeth his soul; but he that hath no guard on his speech, shall meet with evils' (Prov. xiii. 3). 2. 'O generation of vipers, how can you speak good things, whereas you are evil? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh' (Matt, xii. 34).
Application. Detest all lies and falsehoods. Never speak uncharitably of your neighbor, nor grieve him by reproachful words: ' The stroke of a whip maketh a blue mark; but the stroke of the tongue will break the bones' (Ecclus. xxviii. 21). However, do not conceal faults from those who can correct them.
THE TENTH COMMANDMENT.
'Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's goods.'
1. What does the Tenth Commandment forbid?
The Tenth Commandment forbids all voluntary desire of our neighbor's goods.
'The desire of money is the root of all evils' (1 Tim. vi. 10). — Example: Achab (3 Kings xxi.).
2. What are we ' commanded ' by the Tenth Commandment?
We are commanded to be contented with what is our own, and not to be envious of what belongs to others?
3. How can a Christian, even in poverty, be easily contented with his own?
By bearing in mind, 1. That a clean conscience is the greatest treasure; 2. That our true home is in the other world; 3. That Christ also has become poor for our sake, and that one day He will magnificently reward all those who patiently suffer poverty for His sake.
4. Why does God forbid not only all evil actions, but also all evil thoughts and desires?
Because evil thoughts and desires defile the heart, and finally lead also to evil actions.
