“These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and render true and sound judgment in your courts; do not plot evil against your neighbor, and do not love to swear falsely. I hate all this,” declares the LORD. --Zechariah 8:16-17

In September 1999, NASA experienced difficulty in communication and learned a hard lesson. The Mars Climate Orbiter had been traveling to the planet for ten months and scientists were more than excited that it was finally reaching a point that would allow it to complete its mission of being a weather satellite on Mars.

However, the $125 million project destructed just 37 miles above the Martian surface in late September. The failure occurred because of miscommunication between NASA and the Orbiter. It crashed because of a mix-up in the use of English and metric units—something relatively simple in the daily dealings of NASA.

The satellite was originally supposed to be hovering 93 miles above the surface, but the system measurements were wrong and it forced the Orbiter down to 37 miles. This one minor detail completely destroyed millions of dollars invested and years of work in completing the mission. Do you think if they had clearly spoken the truth, their mission would have been successful?

Clear communication is essential for success in business, relationships, and even a Mars satellite. In your social life, church life, or conversation with others, make it a point to speak the truth in Christ’s love. In our mission as believers to show others the way to salvation, it is important that we always keep our mouths clean, hearts pure, and minds focused on what pleases the Lord. Make a choice to clearly communicate godliness, truth, and integrity to everyone who crosses your path.

PRAYER CHALLENGE: Ask God to help you communicate His love in the appropriate manner to those who come into your life. Pray each morning before your day begins that you would speak the truth in all conversations you have with others.

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