Words Have Power
All throughout scripture, emphasis is put on words. The entire universe was created when God simply spoke. While our words can’t create entire universes, they do carry a lot of power.
Proverbs 18:21 tells us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Proverbs 12:18 says, “There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
Oh, how many times I’ve used my sharp tongue to wound someone. That quick satisfaction of the fleshly desire to hurt others is always followed by guilt and regret. For such a tiny muscle, the tongue sure is hard to tame. James 3:5 hammers that point home: “So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!”
We Will Answer for Our Words
We’re reminded in Matthew 12:36, “On the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.” Boy, am I thankful for Jesus.
Instead of those verses I referenced above, you know which ones I desire to identify with?
A gentle tongue is a tree of life. – Proverbs 15:4a
When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. – Proverbs 10:19
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a silver setting. – Proverbs 25:11
From the fruit of a man’s mouth his stomach is satisfied; he is satisfied by the yield of his lips. – Proverbs 18:20
Let’s commit to using our words to build up and not tear down. Let’s employ words of affirmation to those we love. May we be the ones to turn around the day of a stranger with a kind, encouraging word.
Heavenly Father, let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Cleanse my heart of anger, wrath, malice, slander, jealousy, and pettiness. Let my speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that I may know how I ought to answer each person. Thank you for your son, Jesus, who has covered all of my shortcomings. I ask all of these things in Jesus’ precious, holy name. Amen.
About the Author
Melanie Lemus lives in Virginia with her wonderful husband and witty daughter. Melanie loves her freedom – in Christ and America. She’s passionate about natural health and homeopathy, and she’s always down to take a hike through the mountains.
