Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.

Psalm 19:14

How many times have you and I heard children utter these words, “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me”? In their childish innocence, children embrace this old adage as truth while being teased and taunted by their peers. Somehow the thought of words not being able to hurt soothes the wounded spirit. This expression however, is far from the truth. Words can do great harm. They destroy reputations, cause conflict in relationships and injure the spirit.

According to Proverbs 18:21, the tongue is powerful. We can speak death or life to someone or something. There have been many reports of people committing suicide because of being bullied and maligned with words. In this Cyber Age, technology is being used as a weapon of words to insult and maim.

Because words are so powerful, we are commanded to be careful with what we say. Besides, we will be held accountable for the words that we speak. “But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:36-37).

Apostle James cuts no slack when dealing with the tongue. He declares, no one can tame it. It is unruly and full of poison (James 3:7-8). This is why we have to pray on a regular basis that God will give us the strength to speak words of life and not of death.

Even though we can’t tame the tongue, we should be mindful of the words we speak. Our words should build others up and not tear them down. According to Proverbs 25:11, saying the right thing at the right time is a precious jewel. Also, Proverbs 15:4, reminds us that a wholesome (gentle and kind) tongue is a tree of life.

Meditating on the following Scriptures should help us to be mindful to always speak words that are acceptable in God’s sight:

“Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.”

—Psalm 34:13

“Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.”
—Psalm 141:3

“A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”
—Proverbs 15:1

“Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee.”
—Proverbs 4:24

“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath…”
—James 1:19

Does your mouth speak words that build up or do they tear down?

Pray…

Lord, help me to speak words that are pleasing to You.

Posted by on Tuesday, May 30th, 2017 @ 9:38PM
Categories: Inspirational