Have you heard the phrase “weighing your words”? It is an idiom that means to take careful thought before we speak; to carefully consider the results of our words on our hearers. Proverbs 12:8 Reckless words pierce like a sword, and the more common used scripture: Death and life are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21. What is it about this little “member” as James calls it that can stir up so much trouble–or bring such healing?
Our words are a gift we can choose to use everyday. They are at our disposal–24/7. In my imagination I wonder what it would be like if we had a little meter at our mouth. Something that monitored the “weight’ of our words. Would the “empty” ones show up as zeros? Would the too heavy, harsher ones be registered in bold writing? Would the words spoke in season be printed in gold? Of course this is fantasy, but when I know my words could be important in the life of others–I value them differently. Let’s review God’s perspective on words.
Proverbs 12: 6 in the NLT: The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, but the words of the godly save lives.
Proverbs 12:14 Wise words bring many benefits, and hard work brings rewards.
Proverbs 12:18 Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing
Proverbs 12: 25 Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.
Proverbs 4: 23 Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flows the springs of life.
Sometimes the cutting remarks I face come from my own soul. I have to make sure I guard my own heart and thoughts; making sure I speak Godly thoughts to myself. When I do, I find it much easier to speak words of life to others. Words are valuable, let’s use them wisely.
Faith Encounters 