Our language usage is very important for the following five reasons:

1. It is a precious gift from God

2. It reflects our thoughts and personhood

3. It influences others

4. It is a power for good or evil

5. It makes us accountable

The "Twelve Steps in Language Usage" listed in the previous chart are placed below in two columns. What contrast in motive, goal, and use of language is apparent as you contrast the two columns?

All of life is religious. Therefore all my talk -at home, school, church, work, or recreation - is to reflect carefulness, politeness, nobleness, purity, holiness, and reverence, as each situation requires. The following two examples provide illustrations of this.

Annette observed a younger girl walking around a neighboring table in the school's lunchroom, when she suddenly tripped over one of its legs. The tray she was carrying flew out of her hands and its food items were scattered across the floor.

Which of the types of language usage listed in this chart refer to the keeping, and the breaking, of the first table of the law? Of the second table?

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest,whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

- Philippians 4:8

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God:

Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.

- I Corinthians 10:31-33