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A Guideline Worth Following

  There is a “guideline” written on page 86 of my catechism which I have shared with every confirmation class I have ever taught since 1970.  This guideline was not written by Dr. Martin Luther who is the author of Luther’s Small Catechism. But it is written long hand and added to the bottom of the page. I must admit that it looks like my own writing, and it is. But I do not know who to give credit to for the guideline.  But wherever I found it, I thought it was worth sharing with everyone who ever studied the Eighth Commandment with me. And after 50 years it is more relevant than ever, given the reckless communication that we live with today via social media. So what is this “guideline”?

  As I mentioned, it is a note in my catechism under the topic of the 𠇎ighth Commandment” which simply reads like this ......  “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor”

  What does this mean? ...... “We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest way.”   WOW! Wouldn’t our world be significantly different if everyone followed this commandment? Is there anything that might help us to obey this commandment? Perhaps this anonymous “guideline” will help.

  When confronted with the opportunity to speak, we might try following this guideline which consists of four simple questions. Before we say anything at all, ask the following four questions.   

1. Is what I am about to say TRUE?

2. Is what I am about to say KIND?

3. Is what I am about to say NECESSARY?

4. Is what I am about to say something GOD WOULD APPROVE?

  Quite simple actually. As the guideline suggests, ask yourself these four questions before you speak. If you can answer all four questions “YES”, then speak. But if even one of the questions is answered with a “NO”, then don’t speak. 

  Yes, this guideline is “simple”. But it is also 𠇍ifficult”, because of our sinful nature. But let’s challenge ourselves to work at following this guideline. I have no doubt it will have a positive impact on our relationship with others. And don’t forget, this commandment (as well as all of the other nine commandments) is not just a suggestion, but rather it is a COMMAND. Let’s work on this together and make life around us more enjoyable for everyone, and glorifying to God!