Use Your Words Wisely

 

By Andrea Merrell

Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
And those who love it will eat its fruit.

Proverbs 18:21 NKJV

The woman was funny. Quick-witted. Charismatic. People were drawn to her—until her words turned toxic, which could happen with no warning.

Words are powerful. They carry the power of life and death. They can bless or tear down. Heal or wound. And God expects us to use them wisely. The Bible has much to say on the subject. Here are a few examples:

• We are to be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to wrath. (James 1:19)
• We are to bridle our tongue. (James 1:26)
• We’re not to speak both blessing and cursing. (James 3:10)
• We should use our tongue to promote health. (Proverbs 12:18)
• We are to guard our mouth to preserve our life. (Proverbs 13:3)
• We should use soft answers instead of harsh words. (Proverbs 15:1)
• We should have joy by what comes out of our mouth. (Proverbs 15:23)
• Our words should be wise and kind. (Proverbs 31:26)
• Our words should be edifying and not corrupt. (Ephesians 4:29)

Our prayer should be: Holy Spirit, put a guard over my mind, my heart, and my mouth. Let my words be full of grace, edifying others and bringing glory to you. Let me always think before I speak and use my words wisely.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash.com and Brett Jordan.