Forgive My Nonsense

Forgive me my nonsense, as I also forgive the nonsense of those that think they talk sense.
– Robert Frost

This quote from Robert Frost strikes my funny bone.  Nonsense. Checked the definition and found that it is ‘a message that seems to convey no meaning.‘  How many of these messages have I offered during my days on this earth?

I wonder…

Matthew 12:36 tells me that we will be held accountable for every idle word.  Is nonsense an idle word? I checked the Strong’s definition of the word idle as it appears in Matthew 12:36 and found that it means ‘inactive, that is, unemployed, lazy, useless.’

If my words or my humor brings a smile to another, they are not idle. They are far from it. Lightheartedness is needed sometimes.  It is like a fresh wind on a broken heart.  But, my words and occasional nonsense need careful screening.

There are times when I want what I say to be ‘words fitly spoken’ – Proverbs 25:11.

When can I know if my words, my nonsense will be received as intended?  The only way I can be certain is to take all my thoughts captive and check with God before speaking. This requires a bit of self-discipline.

Funny thoughts meant to lighten a moment are like dynamite. God knows what a friend needs. I will remember to check with God before offering my nonsense from time to time. He knows exactly what others need and He can fill my mind with what He wants me to say.

I find now that nonsense is not always idle talk, but it can be.  The only hope I have of cheering up a friend is to check with God before I speak.