Watch your mouths, politicians!

Editor: Election time in our country is often referred to as “the silly season”, “a time when emotions run high”, “the tense season” etc. Some even see it as a time when their “mouths have no backdoor”. It is, indeed, a time when many are drunk with partisan politics. Even some politicians who desire a high office in the land seem to lose their sanity during election period. They behave in ways and make utterances that are totally unsound and unbecoming.{{more}}

Politicians should be very cautious of their words and deportment, especially during election time. After all, all eyes are on them, including our impressionable children! Not only do persons listen to see which party has the best policy and plans, in their estimation, but followers often emulate the very behaviour of their aspiring representative. This is especially sad when the politician’s conduct is far from admirable.

Politicians should make it their business to be watchful of their words. It is their duty to speak the truth at all times. Shun libellous and slanderous statements, refrain from deceptive promises, vindictiveness and derogatory remarks. Their aim should not be to see whose “cussing” could be “juicer” or to say that they are bold and brave. Being loose-mouthed and impulsive is not a sign of bravery. The ability to bridle your tongue, by the grace of God, is an indication of courage and maturity.

Not only should the politician exert the right influence upon all, but he must realize that he has Someone who is greater than man to whom he has to give an account. Jesus Himself admonishes that “every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” You see, politics will soon be no more; the positions and the power that politicians desire would soon cease to exist…but the evil influence of your words upon your own mind and on your hearers may be long-lasting.

For this election season (and beyond), I implore all our politicians to ask the Almighty to direct their speech. You should let your sincere prayer be “set a watch, Oh LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips” Psalm 141:3. No matter how great the temptation, how passionate or aggressive your personality or how easily ‘worked up’ you are, it is important to practise great restraint. Remember that whatever you say, reveals the intentions of your heart. Truly, “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh”. To watch your mouth is really to guard your heart, for out of the heart/mind are the issues of life. Ask your Saviour to give you a new heart which would produce new thoughts, emotions, words and actions. It is only with such a renewed experience, given through Jesus Christ alone, can you glorify your Maker and be a blessing to your fellow citizens. Time is late! Politics, elections, campaigns, men’s worldly attainments are all temporal matters.

I urge you, politicians, to relate in all situations with wisdom, spiritual vision and sound caution. Preserve your minds and those who hear you. Be converted and watch your words!

Ann-Marie Ballantyne

svgpatriot@hotmail.com