“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” Proverbs 25:11
September 14, 2023
Well-chosen words. How wonderful they are. Old conscience scars have a way of haunting our memories, things that we wish we had not said and wise verbal responses that might have been spoken. What can we do to make our communication a gold mine. Proverbs gives us guidance. Sometimes it is better to keep silent (11:12). It’s best to think before we speak (15:28; 17:28). Talking too much can be hazardous to our spiritual health. Let truth stand watch at the door of our mouths (21:23; 13:3). Ask God to help you with words that are suitable to the situation. A few suggestions: Feed your mind with encouraging ideas. Bitterness and anger are a poisoned well. Determine to have clean and sober thought processes. Lines from some of our favorite movies may hurt rather than help. Take care of any unconfessed sin. People and situations that have harmed us can be a breeding ground for cutting and harsh words. Maintain a good conscience. Is it barking at you? Make a list of encouraging things to say to a grieving person, to someone who is discouraged, to someone who is angry at God. Pay special attention to the way Jesus spoke to people, to friend and foe.
H
“The only bit that will bridle the tongue is a little bit of love.”