I am posting this later than I usually do. I got to the office at 5:00 as I normally do and all the power was out-all the businesses, stoplights, etc. So I went back home until I called the business next to us and she said they had full power. I apologize for being late.
I have written often about our speech and the power of the tongue. I think we all know of that danger. While I had another idea percolating in my head this morning, I was overwhelmed by what I found in Proverbs 18. I’ll write the Scripture out for you here in order to make it easier, but I’d like to suggest that you read your own Bible and highlight the following verses:
“Wise words are like deep water; wisdom blows from the wise like a bubbling brook.” (verse 4)
“Fools’ words get them into constant quarrels; they are asking for a beating.” (verse 6
“The mouths of fools are their ruin; they trap themselves with their lips.” (verse 7)
“Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one’s heart.” (verse 8) {Note: we all know how rumors get passed on}
“Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.” (verse 13)
“Wise words satisfy like a good meal; the right words bring satisfaction.” (verse 20)
“The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” (verse 21)
“The poor plead for mercy; the rich answer with insults.” (verse 23)
And then to top if off I also read from Matthew 12 this morning: “For whatever is in your heart determines what you say. A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.” (verses 34-37)
That just closes the book on the seriousness of our words. Listen up! Be careful today (and always) of the words you say.
{All Scripture from the New Living Translation}
Words are powerful–they can build up and they can tear down. The old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me,” is an outright lie.
You are so right Pam. And I should have thought of that old saying this morning. I totally agree with you.
Words are powerful agents of either good or evil. May we guard our tongues wisely when tempted to say something hurtful.
Blessings, Bill!
If we only know how powerful Martha. We might give serious thought and second and third thought to what we say.
Bridling the tongue can be one of the hardest reins to hold onto but absolutely the most important to do so. I also say, respond to comments do not react to comments. The wrong words can linger in someone’s mind and heart forever, and the damage can last their lifetime. Father, help us to season all of our words with salt. Help us to glorify You with all we say and do, and to remember what we say to others, is what we are saying to You. May our words be uplifting, and may our belts of love and truth be securely tightened around our waist. May we be in tune with the Holy Spirit everytime we open our mouths.
Respond not react is a good way to put it Gail. Wise words. i say AMEN to your prayer.