The Power of Your Words

“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” 

Proverbs 12:18  

Today’s Scripture reminds us: “Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” How we need that reminder! Our words are incredibly potent. The words we choose will either nudge people closer to God or actually drive them away from Him. That is an awesome responsibility.  

When God created the world, He spoke it into being. When Jesus walked the earth, He spoke, and the lame were healed. When Peter preached his first sermon, thousands were gathered into the kingdom on one day. Powerful things happen when we speak. Our words can either accomplish great good or inflict unbelievable damage that may last a lifetime.  

Words can instantly create division. And with just the slightest inflection, just a subtle tone of voice, they can wound or create distance. At the same time, our words can lift people out of a pit of despondency or call them back from the cliff-edge of hell. Maybe Solomon said it best: “Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit—you choose” (Proverbs 18:21, MSG). 

Lord, today please show me ways I can speak words of healing and holiness into the lives of others. Most of all, help me to think—and to pray for wisdom—before I say anything.