Authored by Jo Yule
The words from our mouths can have a powerful effect for both good and evil.
“With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father and with it we curse men who have been made in God‘s likeness” – James 3:9
The book of Proverbs has many verses warning us about how our tongues can bring comfort and healing to others, but how they can also drag others down.
“Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” – Proverbs 12:18
How often when someone annoys us are we quick to think of a stinging reply? How much better to listen to this verse
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” – Proverbs 15:1
Gossiping and spreading rumors can have a devastating effect on friendships, but the tongue that is used for healing can restore life
“The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit” – Proverbs 15:4
When we come to understand that having a healing tongue can change situations can bring about peace instead of strife can bring the Lord’s love to destroy hatred, we realize how much we need to cultivate that healing tongue in our own lives.
James has some good advice to start us off
“My dear brothers take note of this. Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” – James 1:19
Finally
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” – Colossians 4:6
Being aware how our tongues can be our downfall is a good beginning and praying before the day begins and when we ask the Lord to grant us healing tongues he is only too happy to help us guard against those reckless words.
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