The Power of Words

THE POWER OF WORDS

Proverbs 18:21 NLT has this strong reminder for us: 

21 The tongue can bring death or life;

those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

Every word that you say impacts someone’s life in some way.

So, what do we do about our mouths?

1. Think before you speak.

James 1:19 NLT has this caution for us: 

19 Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.

Ask yourself these questions: 

●  What is my motive for speaking? 

●  What do I hope to accomplish by saying this? 

●  Will these words encourage someone, or will they rip them apart? 

●  Are these words I will be glad I squeezed out like toothpaste? 

●  Or will I regret them, having to try and scramble to stuff them back into my mouth?

Proverbs 15:1 NLT says this:

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

2. Encourage and uplift others with your words.

Proverbs 16:24 NLT: 

“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”

3. Take time to apologize.

Taking the time to say, “I’m sorry,” can remove that weight of guilt from your own heart and shoulders.

4. Finally, watch what goes into your mind. 

The things that go in will inevitably always come out, whether you realize it or not.

Matthew 15:11 NLT

11It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth.

Psalms 19:14 NKJV

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