Kind words heal and help; cutting words wound and maim. -Proverbs 15:4 MSG
Hot tempers start fights; a calm, cool spirit keeps the peace. -Proverbs 15:18 MSG
Perceptive words spread knowledge; fools are hollow—there's nothing to them. -Proverbs 15:7 MSG
Congenial conversation—what a pleasure! The right word at the right time—beautiful! -Proverbs 15:23 MSG
One of Solomon's predominant messages in the book of Proverbs is the power of our words. In another proverb he tells us that life and death are in the power of the tongue. When I think back I am convinced that the kind, encouraging and healing words that I have spoken are the ones that I want to be known for. Sadly, the sinful and condemning words often come to my mind - the ones that I had to ask forgiveness for changed me to think before I speak.
I read something this week about a sign that said that listen and silent use the same letters - so hard to keep my brain silent when I am listening. Perhaps we can only speak gentle, kind and perceptive words when our brains are silent when we are listening? Maybe speaking a "right word at the right time" is being quiet enough to hear the words of God in our hearts? I love that God has given us the ability to "heal and help" with the words that we speak.
God be merciful to me, the one who harms when he speaks. Fill my heart and my mouth with words that give grace.
Well I understand this problem. I find it easy to answer quickly or put my foot in my mouth and I have to continually ask God to help remember to stop and think before I speak.
ReplyDeleteI so resonate Mike. Thanks for sharing.
DeleteIt was a sign that is in Andrew's 6th grade class at Maranatha, the school where our grandchildren's grandchildren will attend. If the Lord returns before then, it may be one of the few schools of today still operating during the Millenial Kingdom! :)
ReplyDelete