POWER OF WORDS

The power of our words cannot be underestimated. Proverbs 18:21 says, "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." This passage highlights the significant impact that our words can have on others, both positively and negatively.

In James 3:1-10, the author writes about the dangers of the tongue and the need to control what we say. He writes, "If we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell." This passage highlights the destructive power of the tongue and the need for us to control what we say.

In contrast, in Colossians 4:6, Paul writes, "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." This passage highlights the importance of speaking words that are full of grace and kindness. When we speak words that are uplifting and positive, we can bring hope and encouragement to those around us.

In addition to the importance of speaking positive words, we must also guard against gossip and malicious talk. Proverbs 26:20 says, "Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down." This passage highlights the destructive nature of gossip and the need to avoid speaking words that are harmful to others.

Another aspect of the power of our tongue is our ability to praise and worship God. In Hebrews 13:15, it says, "Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess his name." Our words of praise and worship to God are a powerful way to express our love and gratitude to Him, and they can bring comfort and peace to our hearts.

In conclusion, the power of our tongue is a significant aspect of our lives that we must understand and control. We must be careful to speak words that are positive, kind, and full of grace, and we must avoid speaking words that are harmful or malicious. We should also take advantage of the power of our tongue to praise and worship God, expressing our love and gratitude to Him through our words. Let us strive to use our words wisely and to bring life and hope to those around us.