My name is Kyle Ridgeway, and I am sarcastic. It is probably one of my worst traits. I can often make people laugh with my bitter outlook on life, but I can also far more often hurt those close to me. So why do I continue to speak in such a manner? Quite simply, pride. I must be so prideful that I ignore scripture for the sake of a cheap joke.

The question arises of how should I speak?

"To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing." - 1 Peter 3:8-9 

I do not embody these attributes. Talk about convicting. I have a serious need to change that way I speak.

How do I change? It is only through the gospel. We never move past the work of Christ. Only by being continuously sanctified will I become more like Christ. I pray that with each day I become more and more like my savior.

Thank God that he continues to sanctify his followers, and it is not reflective of my works. Only by the gospel interfering with my life will my tongue be tamed. That is the good news of the gospel we are not redeemed by our works, only the perfect satisfying work that Christ put forth on the cross. Praise be to God for his mercy and grace!

So I ask you as my church family to forgive me. I ask this not for my sake. Rather I ask so that praise may be given to our Father in heaven. Likewise, I ask you to hold me accountable. May my speech be pleasing to God and the gospel go forth.