The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. – Proverbs 18:21 (NLT)
What and how we speak to others and ourselves results in either life or death.
When the reaction to what we say is discouragement rather than hope, when our dialogue yields disgust and apathy instead of enthusiasm and redemption, there is a problem with the words spoken.
To mutter perverseness and lies is speaking words that are not edifying or to speak with the intention to deceive or mock others.
At times we feel compelled to lie, or use profane language but Job realized the essence of speaking life even in the midst of his hardship. He said “My lips will not say anything wicked, and my tongue will not utter lies” Job 27:4.
We must know this – lying and perverse speaking is the language of Satan.
Has lying become your lifestyle? Is utterance of ‘curse words’ your reflex response to pain, anger and frustration?
At times we are mindful to speak a certain way at church and fellowship but throw words carelessly at others outside these places.
The bible admonishes us not to let any unwholesome talk come out of our mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up, that it may benefit them (Ephesians 4:29).
We need to be intentional in speaking life to our roommates, friends, co-workers, family members, brethren and ourselves.
Remember, Christ who has called you is holy, so be holy in all manner of conversation (1Pet 1:15).
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I have learned that the power to speak life or death lies in my tongue. Teach me to be wise in all my conversation. In Jesus name. Amen.