“The tongue has the power of life and death.” Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)
My eldest will be going into Grade one this year. For nearly six years we have been speaking into her young life and heart. Sometimes I am encouraged by the fruit; sometimes humanly disheartened. I am reminded and challenged to speak words that belong to a category of blessing. They are words of acceptance, affection, appreciation, approval and attention.
In the same way, we can use our words “and our looks” to curse. These words are: degrading, derisive, derogatory, destructive, displeasing and disapproving.
There is so much power in our tongue. We can shape and build lives with words that strengthen and give life. Or we can choose to hurt and harden the hearts of those around us.
Today let’s ask God that the words of our mouths and the meditation of our hearts be acceptable in His sight.
Prayer:
Father, please help me to use my words to build up, strengthen, encourage and ultimately bless. Help me not to break down what You are intending to shape in the lives of those around me. Amen.
By Idelette McVicker
Used by Permission
Further Reading
• Hold My Tongue – by Laura Rath
• The Power of the Tongue – by Katherine Kehler
• Why is What I Say So Important? by Dr. Henry Brandt
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