THE STORY OF JESUS: Proverbs 17-19
“The tongue has the power of life and death.” (Proverbs 18:21)
Do we realize how penetrating words can be, how they can heal or hurt?
As one who uses words for a living, I sometimes forget this.
How many people have been blessed by my words without my knowing it?
But the same could be asked for how many people have been hurt.
This reminds me of Jesus’ warning about careless words (Matthew 12:36).
As one who likes to be funny, are my attempts at humour risky?
Am I hurting people unintentionally, am I making light of something painful?
This should lead me to pray hard when I speak, for the Spirit to help me.
For the Spirit to use my weak words for His good purpose.
“The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint.” (Proverbs 17:27)
This is a good reminder to me, to remember the seriousness of words.
Maybe, instead of speaking so much, I should listen more. (Proverbs 18:13)
Shorten my sermons and give more time for reflecting, for hearing Jesus!
Maybe I should heed the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 6:11…
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, You were a master at using words well. Your simple prayer and brief lessons have more power than my lenghty speeches. Help me to trust my words less, and trust Your Spirit more!
‘The Lord tests the heart.’
From the heart come all things – our words. our actions, our daily living.
Be discerning.
Be wise.
Stop. Listen.
The tongue has power. So small and yet so powerful. It is compared to the rudder of a ship – so small and yet it steers the vessel. So it is with the tongue – so small yet the words we speak bring life or death. Use the words to be a blessing.
Oh, be careful little mouth, what you say, (repeat),
For the Father up above,
Is looking down in love,
So be careful little
mouth what you say.