The tongue that heals is a tree of life, but a devious tongue breaks the spirit. —Proverbs 15:4
Our words can do enormous damage. Even one thoughtless word has consequences. It’s hard to believe that the same tongue that speaks life-giving words can also speak words that bring destruction.
Perhaps you heard such destructive words as a child—words you’ve never been able to forget. Even though you know today that those words weren’t true, they still hurt deeply. We can’t control the words that are spoken to us, but we can focus on the words that we say to others. Sometimes it’s easy to say careless or destructive words without thinking when you’re with those you know the best. But don’t let your guard down and say discouraging, impatient words that wound rather than heal.
Oftentimes we are blinded concerning how our words offend. Ask the Lord to open your eyes to ways that your words are hurtful or damaging. Then ask Him for wisdom in the moment to speak words of blessing and hope to those around you.
Make it Personal
Today, choose to say words of healing and hope to those around you.