As a writer and a speaker I love searching for just the right word or combination of words to get my point across. As Solomon said, “…it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!” (Proverbs 15:23 NLT).
Unfortunately, too often, I’m more likely to say the wrong thing at the wrong time. I’ll get upset at a co-worker for not getting something right and a harsh word slips out. Then I have to spend the rest of the day mending fences. Another time I might mean to give a compliment and end up insulting the other person by mistake. It’s no wonder James described the tongue as “restless and evil, full of deadly poison.” (James 3:8).
Words have so much power, both for good or evil. As Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.” Words can build bridges or tear them down. They start wars or heal wounds. They can express love or spew hatred.
In the end, it all comes down to who we put in control of our tongues. If we give God control He will teach us when to speak and when to stay silent. When we do speak our words will be “a life-giving fountain;” (Proverbs 10:11), will “encourage many,” (Proverbs 10:21) and may even “save lives.” (Proverbs 12:6). That’s the power of words, when we let God have control.
Today, before you do anything else, and especially before you say a single word, ask God to take control of your tongue. Let your prayer be, “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14). Ask Him to give you “the right thing to say at the right time” and determine to use the power of words to share His love everywhere you go.