“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” Proverbs 18:21
September 26, 2022
Never underestimate the power of words. Think back over your own life to those times when a harsh word struck your heart like a poison arrow. It may have come from a parent or friend which made it hurt that much more. At the same time bring up some of those words spoken kindly to you that gave you a fresh outlook on your problems, altering your motivation for God’s glory and good in your life. Proverbs 18 is a treasure chest on the good use and bad use of the tongue. A fly over is valuable. (1) Renew your commitment to becoming an effective communicator (18:4). Are people being helped by the advice and counsel you give? (2) Learn to control your tongue (18:6-7). Attack the problem not the person. Think before you speak (“A fool’s mouth is his ruin” 18:7). It is sometimes best to keep silent. (3) Be careful about talking to people who aren’t a part of the solution (18:8). (4) Listen to get all the facts before you draw any conclusions (18:13, 17, “The one who states his case seems right, until the other comes and examines him.”). (5) We feed ourselves on the words that we speak. Wrong attitudes reveal themselves in our vocabulary (e.g., “I can’t,” “I did my best,” “Don’t blame me,” “That is impossible.” Never forget, words cannot be called back. Talking too much can be hazardous to our spiritual health (10:19). Proverbs was especially directed to the youth of the nation of Israel to set them on the right path in life. Pray for young people as they are having to cope with a confused and morally corrupt culture. H
“Lord, may the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight.”