THE POWER OF OUR WORDS
If the three great virtues produced in a believer’s life are faith, hope, and love, our speech and words may be the most powerful tool for exercising those virtues. Proverbs has a lot to say about the power of our words. Consider this small sampling.
The Power of Our Words to Heal
Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones (Proverbs 16:24).
The Power of Our Words to Stir Up Trouble
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (Proverbs 15:1).
What you don’t say is as important as what you do say:
Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues (Proverbs 17:28).
The Power of Our Words to Bring Life and Death
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit (Proverbs 18:21).
As you prepare for Sunday, reflect on the following proverbs; allow them to constructively critique your words and reveal what they are producing.
1. Wounding or Healing?
The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing (Proverbs 12:18).
Reflective Focus: Think about specific interactions with family, coworkers, or online. Reflect on Proverbs 12:18 and ask yourself whether your tone and timing brought life and encouragement, or if reckless comments left subtle wounds.
2. The Discipline of Silence
Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues (Proverbs 10:19).
Reflective Focus: Using Proverbs 10:19 and 17:28, consider whether you tend to over-explain, gossip, or rush to defend yourself when misunderstood. Identify one area where practicing intentional silence or waiting to reply could protect you from regret.
3. De-escalation vs. Fueling the Fire
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (Proverbs 15:1).
Reflective Focus: Think about how you respond to criticism or a harsh tone from others. As you refelect on Proverbs 15:1, evaluate whether your default reaction stirs up anger or actively diffuses tension. Are you a thermometer that simply reflects the heat of a tense conversation, or are you a thermostat that helps cool it down?
