Think, Speak, Give Life

Death and life are in the power of the tongue. – Proverbs 18:21

Think about the last time you were the target of someone’s hurtful words. Or maybe you were the one doing the talking.  How did you feel?  Wouldn’t be wonderful if we could rewind and delete those painful moments? 

God warns us in Proverbs 18:21 that our tongue has the power of life and death.  Our words can build up, spur on, and encourage others to blossom in this life.  And, out of the same mouth, our words can tear down and hurt others, leaving them deflated, defeated, and dead.

James, the half-brother of Jesus, also spoke of the power of the tongue:

“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.” – James 3:5-6

Just a few weeks ago, a campfire abandoned with a small spark still aflame, spread quickly causing hundreds of homes to be evacuated in a mountain area close to my city.  One spark grew to destroy many acres of land and put hundreds of lives in danger.

Our words can be just like that small fire that quickly grew out of control.

·       One flirtatious word (or text) can open a door to an affair.

·       One statement of blame can poison a friendship.

·       One lash of contempt can set a couple drifting apart.

Or…

·       One encouraging conversation can spur someone on to run after their dreams.

·       One word of praise can keep someone going even when they want to quit.

·       One humble Thank You can nurture a relationship.

·       One sincere apology can heal a torn heart.

Practice today.  Think before you speak and listen to God’s warnings.  Remember, your tongue has the power of life and death.  Let your words give hope, encouragement, and wind to another’s sail.  Choose wisely and speak love and life. 

The Power of Giving God Thanks Will Ignite Your Faith and Change Your World!

Thank You for Being a Part of the 3 O’Clock Wake Up Movement