“Hide me from those who make evil plans against me…They make their tongues like SHARP SWORDS. They aim their words like DEADLY ARROWS.” (Psalms 64:2-3)
A king called his faithful servants and asked them to bring him two things; first, the most pleasant thing in the world. Second, the most damaging thing in the world. The two servants came back and made their presentations to the King, the first, a human tongue he said when kind words were spoken by people, they were very blessed. The second servant smiling and laughing, presented a tongue as well and described how people were so deeply hurt when cruel words were spoken! “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me…” We all know how untrue that childhood chant is. WORDS DO HURT. Ridicule, disdain, humiliation, taunting, all cause injury, and when it is delivered in childhood, from a child’s peers, verbal abuse causes more than emotional trauma. It inflicts LASTING PHYSICAL EFFECTS on brain structure. According to Psychology Today!
“The right word at the right time is like golden apples in silver jewelry.” (Prov. 25:11)
The impact our words have on others cannot be overstated. One small comment or remark can make the difference between building a relationship up or tearing it down. WE HAVE THE POWER TO EITHER ENCOURAGE OR DESTROY OTHERS WITH OUR SPEECH.
“The tongue has THE POWER OF LIFE AND DEATH, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” (Prov. 18:21)
Psychology Today talked of the lasting physical effects, look at the wisdom of God…
“Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and HEALTH TO THE BODY.” (Prov. 16:24)
Let us look at one critical issue Jesus addressed concerning the words we speak:
“I tell you, on the day of judgment people will GIVE ACCOUNT FOR EVERY CARELESS WORD THEY SPEAK, for BY YOUR WORDS you will be justified, and by your words you will be CONDEMNED.” (Matt. 12:36-37) So, as we repent for any careless words we may have spoken, let us pray this prayer:
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart BE ACCEPTABLE in your sight, O LORD…” (Psa. 19:14)
Dear Lord, let our words bring health and healing…Bill Stockham