KaraLynneCards ~Kimberly, Wisconsin, United States
Research has proven that each day we speak about 10,000 words. Of course, some people may say even more or possibly less. But what is the quality and content of those words?
The words of King Solomon, the wisest person who ever lived, tell us there is power in the tongue:
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
And those who love it and indulge it will eat its fruit and bear the consequences of their words.” ~Proverbs 18:21
When I think about such potential, it gives me pause. I realize that with every breath, I choose to use memorable sayings that build up or destructive terms that lack kindness.
If each of us could stop and think before we utter one syllable, we could avoid regrets later.
In Matthew chapter 12, Jesus instructed that we, like a tree, will be known by our fruit. Every person will one day give an account to God for their words. Words are the outward evidence of our inward character. And with each utterance, we have a choice to bless God and love others as we consider what the hearer will receive from our hearts.
When I think of Jesus words in Matthew 12:36-37, it makes me want to be silent and not speak another word:
“I tell you, on the day of judgment, people will give an account for every careless word they speak for by your words you will be justified, and by your words, you will be condemned.”
Despite that, I realize I also can invest eternal words of significance, kindness, and wisdom if I speak them in love.
The fruit – the outward evidence – of God living in your life is manifested by the fruit of the Holy Spirit, a nine-fold fruit that begins with love (Galatians 5:22-23). So I can examine my heart, listen to my words, and scrutinize them to see if they exemplify love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, and, a key one, self-control.
I must admit that I have spoken words so carelessly, which have furthered pain for someone else and regret for myself. When I realized those expressions are like feathers in the wind, never to be gathered again, I so wished I had restrained myself. The anguish of spirit was devastating and not worth the distress I caused the bystander. That’s when loving humility must surface as I seek forgiveness and try to repair the damage. I am thankful that I can first confess my sin to God and ask for His help to heal.
I love this description about words, also penned by Solomon:
“Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a word spoken at the right time.” ~ Proverbs 25:11
These words reflect my heart’s prayer that the words I think, say, write and act upon may be something beautiful and fulfilling. I desire to reflect my loving Saviour Jesus and die to self, that I may speak softly, bring joy, use knowledge rightly, and offer a wholesome tongue which is a tree of life. I also desire discernment to know when not to speak and solely observe.
Let the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be pleasing to You, O LORD, our Rock and our Redeemer ~ Psalm 19:14
Here’s a great prayer to ensure we speak words of life:
“23 Search me, O God, and know my heart!
Try me and know my thoughts!
24 And see if there be any grievous way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting!” ~ Psalm 139:23-24
May God give you moment by moment grace and self-control to bless others with your words!
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Learn more about Jesus here:
https://www.youversion.com/the-bible-app/embed/#?secret=NW3uPkn8Ms#?secret=qnyRifNEqQ
https://watch.thechosen.tv/page/seasons%201-3
https://www.navigators.org/resources/
Gleanings From Heaven's Gate 