Tongue's Power

"The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." (Proverbs 18:21)

Never underestimate the power of our tongue (our spoken words)! The tongue has the power of life and death spiritually, physically, and emotionally.

Spiritually-- "Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." (Matthew 12:33-37) We are held accountable to our words. This is a great reminder for us to think before we speak. Words of the Gospel bring life spiritually. We are commanded to spread the gospel and "teach them to obey everything I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:20a). Words of false teaching and lies from Satan can cause death spiritually. I'm saddened to see so many people, including some "Christians", fall prey to lies and deception that turn them away from Biblical truths. The enemy is often at work through people's conversation to cause others to doubt God, to twist God's Word, and/or to stumble away from God's will. Even Peter was rebuked by Jesus when his words were influenced by Satan (see Matthew 16:23).

Physically-- Words lead to action, good and bad. A judge's words can cause a person to live or to be executed. A doctor's advice and instruction can save lives. A counselor's words can spare the life of a suicidal person. On the other hand, words of argument, insult, and/or hatred can lead to retaliation, violence, and murders.

Emotionally-- Words can heal or hurt. Words can encourage or discourage. Words can promote peace or stir up conflict. Words can mend or destroy relationships.

The tongue is an instrument that can be used for good or evil. Choose and use your words wisely! What we say matters! Our words carry implications and profound effects. Words can ruin or strengthen marriages, careers, families, friendships, reputations, etc. We must strive to control our tongue. Those who love to speak/talk must bear in mind that they shall reap its fruit, whether good or bad, sweet or bitter, life or death. May we choose words that bear good & sweet fruit of life!

"The lips of the righteous nourish many." (Proverbs 10:21)

Prayer: Abba Father, please forgive me when my words are not kind, gracious, appropriate, considerate, or respectful. Please give me the right words at just the right time so that they can meet the needs of others and build others up. Please help my conversation be always full of grace. Please help words that come out of my mouth be loving, edifying, encouraging, and bring glory & honor to You. "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer." (Psalm 19:14) In Jesus' Name, I pray. Amen.