The words we speak have power and the way we use them can make a big difference in our lives and in the lives of others. That’s why it’s so important that we choose our words wisely. “The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues speak what is just.” (Psalms 37:30) NIV
During our times of adversity and hardship, we find ourselves speaking, “This is too much I can’t handle this right now.” Nevertheless, when we start speaking I can do this, God will give us the strength to go through it without complaining. “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13) KJV
All of us will encounter people that will say rude and disrespectful things to us. However, as Christians, we can’t stoop down to their level. We have to show love to them by speaking kind words. Kind words provide many benefits, not only to the person it is intended for, but also to the person who is speaking them. “Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you.” (Proverbs 11:17) NLT
Even when someone is angry with us, we have to carefully consider each word and tone that we speak; because harsh words can intensify the anger. In moments such as these, we have to use a gentle speech to calm them down.” A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1) NKJV
How often do we tear people down, even those we’re closest to, and justify it as being “funny”? We should speak only words that benefit others because damaging words can cause some of our deepest scars. So let us start building up people with words that will encourage them instead of tearing them down. “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” (1Thessalonians 5:11) NIV
Sometimes we say words that will hurt someone’s feelings and cause them emotional distress or pain. Once we speak it, we hate what we said, but we can’t take the words we spoke back. In times like these, we have to ask that person to forgive us so we can get forgiveness from God. “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32) KJV
We have to be mindful of what we speak, especially when people confide in us about their personal business. We should take it seriously and not spread it by gossiping with someone else. Talking behind someone’s back might seem harmless at first, but it can ruin relationships fast. “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” (Proverbs 11:13) NIV
So be encouraged today and always remember:”Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” (Proverbs 18:21) KJV
Minister Sherry Ivy is a Minister of the New Providence M. B. Church (Healing & Yoke Destroying Ministry) in Macon Mississippi, under the leadership of her husband, Pastor Willie J. Ivy Sr. you can contact her via email at [email protected].
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