Be Careful What You Say

Have you ever had someone say something to you that you never forgot? Maybe it was a word of encouragement that lifted you when you needed it most. Or maybe it was a careless comment that still hurts years later. Words may seem small, but they carry tremendous power.

Proverbs 18:21 tells us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Jesus took this even further when He said, “For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” That is serious business! And in Matthew 15:11–20, Jesus teaches that what comes out of our mouths reveals what is already in our hearts. Our words are often a window into what is happening inside us.

That is something worth remembering before we gossip about someone, repeat something we heard, or speak harshly because we are angry. Our words can damage reputations, friendships, families, and even churches. Instead of talking about someone, perhaps we should pray for them. Instead of reminding others of someone’s failures, perhaps we should remember how patiently Jesus has loved and forgiven us.

Proverbs 16:1 says, “The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD.” Before we speak, we can ask God to work on our heart first. Pray our words bring life instead of hurt, encouragement instead of criticism, forgiveness instead of resentment, and love instead of gossip.

Food for Thought

Before speaking about someone today, ask yourself:

Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind? And would I say it if that person were standing beside me?

Sometimes the most loving words are the ones we choose not to say.

Prayer

Lord, help me guard my heart and my tongue. Forgive me for the times I have spoken carelessly or talked about others when I should have shown them love. Teach me to forgive as You have forgiven me, and let my words bring encouragement, peace, and life to those around me. Amen.