"When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise." Prov. 10:19
"He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin." Prov. 13:3
"Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Prov. 12:18
"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Prov. 15:1
"Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." Prov. 16:24
"Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins." James 4:17
As you can tell, my blog entry has everything to do with words. Over the past couple of weeks, God has really been talking to me about my words, how they affect others, and how they effect my walk with Him. Our words are such a powerful thing. The phrase "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me," is a statement that I totally disagree with. It completely undermines the power of words. There are so many verses in Scripture about the impact that words have on people. God knows that it's something we struggle with and it's something that is so important to Him. As believers, I believe it is our duty to hold a tight rein on our tongues because we are living out the wonderful things God is doing and has done in our lives. We are an example of Christ. People are constantly watching us and our words are a testimony of our faith. The life of Jesus has really spoken to me as I have read and studied about the impact His words had on others. Jesus was a perfect man. He loved the unlovable, He healed the sick, He spent His life telling others about the love of His father. He never did anything wrong, yet people spit on Him. They made fun of Him. They said very unkind things to Him, even while He was dying. Yet, he didn't say anything unkind back. He took it a step further. He asked God, out loud, to forgive the people that were sinning (Luke 23:34). That is true love and true compassion. That kicks me in the pants so much. So often, I feel like I have to stand up for myself and plead my case when I am accused wrongly of something. I tend to make excuses when I am confronted about an offense I have made. When someone doesn't talk to me the way I think they should, I don't react the way Jesus did.
My prayer is that as believers, we focus on our words. Our words tell a lot about what is in our hearts and minds. They can really hurt or help. Unity among believers can be strengthened or broken down. It's amazing how powerful our tongues are. Please ask your Father, who knows that we stuggle with this issue, to open your eyes to your words; to make you more aware to the things you say and how you respond to others. It's easy to let your guard down. Let God's strength fill you in those times. Depend on Him.
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