The Tongue Can Bring Death or Life

Words can cut like a knife and sting like lemon extract permeating the wound.

Some people’s words are life giving, while others can deal death’s blow. The worst is when it’s someone closest to you, yet they are the best candidate to deal a lethal blow.

Before you look for that person in your life ask yourself, “Is it me?” Do your words ever get careless? Do you lob them across the room in conversation as a combatant would a hand grenade?

We have options and the wisest man whom ever lived, King Solomon, gives us this advice The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18 NIV

Who do you want to be?

I had an experience recently that made me realize, I want to be the person who uses my words to heal rather than harm. It will take slowing down my reaction time and being quick to listen. But the painful ordeal of being on the receiving end of such barbs was all the lesson I needed.

Who are you surrounding yourself with?

Now I am not talking about people who will always tell you what you want to hear. Enlist people willing to tell you the truth even when the truth might hurt. Not because of their delivery, but because they love you enough to take the risk.

Solomon also tells us, Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy. Proverbs 27:6 NLT

Be gracious with your words, not flattering, people know the difference. What we all need is someone who will speak with kindness and conviction without malice.

Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. Proverbs 16:24 NIV

How will you choose to proceed?