On June 8, 1845, America’s seventh president died. A few days later, the funeral service of Andrew Jackson attracted thousands. One particular attendee was removed during the service because of his uncontrollable behavior. Throughout the service, he kept interrupting the speakers with fits of profanity.
Who was this disrespectful guest? The president’s pet parrot.
Here’s my question. Where did the bird learn his “fowl language”? Clearly, from the president himself.
There is a price to pay for the words we use. Solomon wrote, “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences” (Proverbs 18:21).
Recovery Step: Your words will do one of two things for those closest to you. They will help or they will hinder. Someone is listening. So choose your next words carefully.
Author: Mark Denison
Mark and Beth Denison, married for 36 years, launched There’s Still Hope as a national movement to call men and women into lives of sexual integrity. Their ministry offers 90-day recovery plans for addicts and one-on-one and group coaching for addicts and their spouses. TSH also produces resources for pastors and churches to confront the porn epidemic that is destroying so many lives.
Dr. Denison was a senior pastor for over 30 years, NBA chaplain, and board chairman at Houston Baptist University three times. With a Master’s Degree in Addiction Recovery, Mark is a certified PSAP and active member of the American Association of Christian Counselors.
Mark has written four books on recovery: Porn in the Pew, 365 Days to Sexual Integrity, A 90-Day Recovery Guide, and 40 Days to Porn-Free Living. His latest book, Jesus on the 12 Steps, will be released later this year.
