Reckless speech is as dangerous as reckless driving. Caution matters. Angry, hostile words, cause combative situations and destroy relationships

Attacking people with a verbal log isn’t dialogue. It’s bullying. Unfortunately, the freedom of speech seems to have become more about bullying than about communication. Friends who continually insult people, will one day insult you.

Speech is never free from consequences. Words have impact. I want to use my freedom of speech to encourage people to spread kindness. Every word of kindness, in an unkind environment, is an act of courage.

Jesus spoke about courageous free speech when He said: “Bless those who curse you.” When we hurt or harm a human, we disrespect the image of God. If you wouldn’t want something said (or done) to you, don’t say (or do) it to others.

Often freedom of speech becomes freedom of repetition — merely saying what someone else said. Perhaps our most neglected freedom is the freedom to do our own thinking. Too many people have surrendered their freedom, to think before they speak.

The living Jesus can give you freedom from the words that torment your soul. I love having the freedom to find and consume, uplifting, inspiring, encouraging words. I prefer to listen to and read hopeful voices and to ignore angry ones.

The free speech on most social media platforms is paid for by advertisers. Christians who won’t let people who disagree with them on their church program, are critical of social media for enforcing standards of conduct.