Ever thought about the power of words? The things people say to us can last for years. They can shape how we behave and what we think about ourselves. And our words can do the same for others. And when our words are lies or gossip, they can create big problems. The Bible says: ‘Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body’ (vv. 5-6 NIV). So, knowing that our words can cause so many issues, we need to be extra careful about what we’re saying, when we’re saying it and who we’re saying it to. And we can ask for God’s help. David prayed: ‘Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips’ (Psalm 141:3 NIV). God knows all the words we say, and all the ones we don’t say. ‘Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely’ (Psalm 139:4 NIV). That might sound like a scary thought. But when we remember that, it can help us to pay attention to what we’re saying and thinking. And that’s not just referring to the words we shouldn’t be saying. It can also help us to think about good things and to speak words that bring life, joy and peace to others. In 1 Thessalonians it says: ‘Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing’ (5:11 NIV). And the Bible also says: ‘Kind words heal and help; cutting words wound and maim’ (Proverbs 15:4 MSG). So let’s make sure our words help, not hurt; build up, not tear down.

What Now?

Every morning, before you speak to anyone, ask God to help you speak only encouraging and positive words during the day.