In a world filled with words, from casual conversations to digital dialogues, we often underestimate the impact our language can have on others. The Bible teaches us that the words we speak should serve a higher purpose – to help and bring value to those who listen. Let’s explore the profound wisdom that God shares with us through the Bible regarding the power of our words and how they can either build up or break down those He brings into our life.
Proverbs 15:4
“The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.”
This verse from Proverbs emphasizes the contrast between the words that soothe and give life and those that are perverse and crush the spirit. It reminds us that our words have the power to heal and nurture, or to harm and destroy.
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
In Ephesians, we are instructed to use our words to build others up and benefit those who listen. This scripture underscores the idea that our speech should be tailored to the needs of those we are communicating with, and it should always aim to provide value.
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
This proverb reveals the incredible power our words hold – they can give life or bring death. It reminds us that the words we speak not only affect others but also have consequences for ourselves.
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
Colossians encourages us to season our conversations with grace and wisdom. Our words should be a source of encouragement and enlightenment, always ready to provide answers that help and bring value.
Bottom Line Y’all…
God makes it clear that our words are a powerful tool, capable of either building up or breaking down those who hear us. As we navigate our daily interactions, let us remember that our speech should be guided by the principles of love, kindness, and the desire to bring value to those around us. In doing so, we can fulfill the divine purpose of our words… which is to positively impact the lives of others.
Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others. A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted. An honest witness tells the truth; a false witness tells lies. Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed. Deceit fills hearts that are plotting evil; joy fills hearts that are planning peace! No harm comes to the godly, but the wicked have their fill of trouble. The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth. The wise don’t make a show of their knowledge, but fools broadcast their foolishness. Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave. Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up. The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray. Lazy people don’t even cook the game they catch, but the diligent make use of everything they find. ~ Proverbs 12:15-27
Mitch Fairchild 
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