Blessing or Weapon

James 3:1-12, Proverbs 15:1, 25:11, I Peter 3:10, Colossians 4:6, James 1:26

There is much discussion about weapons today as one person or country moves ahead in ways to be a threat to another. We are also reminded, in the Bible, that the “tongue” can be used to “give life or death”. So it is today that many will be encouraged by the good words of others and many will be discouraged by the hurting and destructive words of others. Some things to remember about words are:

• Words are often spoken so quickly but linger so long

• Little words are often used but have a great meaning

• Words reveal what is in the heart

• And much more…

One must be careful how, when, where, and what they speak. Many family and church problems are created when a person speaks words of discouragement instead of encouragement and good. The believer often is instructed in the Bible to be sensitive, obedient, and careful in the words that are spoken. As representatives of the Lord, one is to check their heart often and deal with sins anchored in the heart which then affect the words spoken. The scriptures remind the follower of Christ to guard, bridle, restrain the tongue, and by the Holy Spirit’s leading speak words that refresh, help, encourage, and direct others to Christ.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for cleaning my heart and giving me Your Holy Spirit who guides me in all my communications.

Project: Stop and evaluate your communications to be sure they are honoring to the Lord and refreshing to others.