Have you ever thought about the words that leave your lips and how they might affect the person you are saying them them to.
I know I have said some really rotten things and I regret them the moment they leave my lips.
Then I, am reminded that some of my greatest pain in life has been over words spoken to me by others.
Sometimes, I recall those words, and the pain comes rushing in again, like reopening an old wound.
And sometimes someone can say something to me that triggers that old pain, and they don’t even know it.
It hurts my heart when I think that this pain I feel, I have also inflicted on others.
The Bible tells us just how powerful our tongue is and how it is capable of both great and profound destruction.
Our words can build up, encourage, and motivate, or they can tear down, hurt, and cause horrible scars.
Here are a few verses that speak on our tongue and what comes from our lips.
James 3:5-6
The tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boast.
Consider what a great forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire and world of unrighteousness.
Although the tongue is such a small part of our body, the words that roll off of it can cause damage like a wildlife that can be difficult to undo.
Proverbs 12:18
There is one whose rash words are like swords thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Words spoken in haste or anger can cut deeply.
But wise and thoughtful words can bring comfort, peace, and restoration.
James 3:8-10
But no human being can subdued the tongue.
It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it, we bless the Lord and Father, and with it, we curse people made in God’s image. From the same mouth comes blessing and cursing.
These things should not be so my brothers and sisters.
Proverbs 15:4
A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perversness in it breaks the spirit.
A gentle tongue offers nourishment, strength, and growth. Like the tree of life.
But perverse and harsh words lead to discouragement and despair and can crush the spirit.
Matthew 15:11
What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of his mouth, that is what defiles them.
And…
Matthew 12:36-37
“I tell you, on the day of judgment, people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”
This is a reminder of the accountability we will have for our words.
Every word we speak will be subject to judgment.
Our words have a significant impact on our relationships, our reputation, and even our eternal destiny.
We are called to use our words wisely, to speak life, and to reflect God’s love through not only our actions but our speech.
God sees you, and He still loves you ❤️
Brenda in Christ.
This is such a powerful reminder of how impactful our words can be. I’ve definitely experienced moments where I’ve said things I regret, and it’s hard to shake off the guilt. It’s also true that words from others can leave lasting scars, even if they didn’t mean to hurt us. I love how the Bible emphasizes the importance of using our words to uplift and encourage rather than tear down. It’s a challenge to be mindful of what we say, but it’s so worth it. Do you think it’s possible to fully repair the damage caused by hurtful words, or do some scars just stay with us forever? I’d love to hear your thoughts on how we can better reflect God’s love through our speech.