Have you ever been in a situation where a conversation or discussion took an unfortunate detour? It makes me sad to admit that I have witnessed this phenomenon far too times. When tempers flare, feelings take over and inevitably things tend to get out of hand. Heated conversations often lead to unfortunate outcomes. Harsh words said in such exchanges damage relationships, escalate the conflict, often leave lasting scars and prevent resolution. Over the past several months, we have watched how words have been used to erode and divide. I do not know who came up with the mid-19th century saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” but I doubt they were followers of Jesus. Words are like toothpaste in the tube, once squeezed out, they cannot be put back. The Bible says our words have lasting impact, they are important and powerful.
God used the power of words, His words, to create all beings, the world and everything in it. God spoke into nothingness and brought things into existence (Genesis 1, Psalm 33:9, Hebrews 11:3). Jesus, The Word, Who was and is with God, came to earth in the flesh as The Living Word. Throughout His earthly ministry, the divine utterances of Jesus had the power create, renew, sustain and transform. His Words are active, alive and life changing. While none of us are Jesus and do not have creation power, what we say still impacts and influences. Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit”. The words we speak have power and meaning. The words we speak can create or destroy. The words we speak can build up or tear down. Sisters, we need to be mindful and watch what we say.
The words we speak give insight to what is in our hearts. Our words reveal what’s in our hearts. Just as a mirror reflects our appearance, our speech reflects our character (Matthew 15:18). The words we speak indicate our feelings, intentions and thoughts (Luke 6:45). As Christians, the words we speak should glorify God and reflect His compassion, grace, love and mercy. If we claim to belong to God, others should be able to see, experience at attest to that fact. God’s Word ought to guide our actions, thoughts and words. The results of hiding God’s Word in my heart should not only lead to a strong relationship with The Father but also lead to speaking His Word and godly words to others (Psalm 119:11). If we claim to know God’s Word, we must live His Will. Our behavior and character ought to reflect the spiritual transformation daily happening within us. God’s Word must be the compass that directs what comes from our mouths.
As daughters of The Most High God, we must choose and use our words wisely. We must adhere to the wise words, “Think before you speak”. The 1990s secular craze, WWJD? (What Would Jesus Do?) Based on the 1890s writings of Charles Sheldon, posed a valuable question. I believe we (the church and the world at large) need to revisit that with an adjustment. In these crazy times, I believe an update is in order, everyone needs to ask themselves WWJS? (What Would Jesus Say?). I contend that we must pray before we speak. The tradition of engaging in a moment of prayer before speaking is not just for the preacher. Pausing to pray before opening our mouths, seeking divine guidance, would benefit everyone (Psalm 19:14, Colossians 4:6). Doing so helps ensure that our words are constructive, enlightening, gracious, honest, productive and uplifting.
In all of the madness going on in our world, I believe we have lost sight of the weight of our words carry. People are hurting and seeking for answers and comfort amid chaos. Therefore those of us who claim to be Followers of Jesus must be mindful of the power of our words. The Word of God warns us that we will be held accountable for the words we speak (Matthew 12:36). Let us not take this responsibility lightly. Our words can either reflect the love of Christ or contradict the very faith we profess. When we speak life, truth, and grace, we partner with God in healing and reconciling. But when we speak carelessly, we risk tearing down what God has called us to build. In a world desperate for hope and clarity, let us ensure that our speech stands out as a beacon of light. Let us speak with purpose, guided by God’s Word and led by The Holy Spirit. May our words overflow with compassion, truth and wisdom, echoing the heart of Jesus. Watch your mouth, my sisters, because what you say matters more than you know.
Join me Under The Church Hat for this month’s devotion:
Write a prayer seeking forgiveness for a time when your words have unintentionally caused harm.
In less than 250 words, describe a time when you paused to pray or seek God’s guidance before engaging in difficult conversation.
List three ways you experience God shaping your heart through His Word and how it is impacting your communication.
Describe how you will be intentional about listening to the words you speak and or reflecting on the words write throughout this month to ensure they show the compassion, love and truth of Jesus.
Choose a passage from this month’s devotion to meditate upon this month.
As a child, my mom always told me to “Open Up My Mouth”!! She was primarily referring to when people would speak to me~ Well truth be told, to this day I am still opening up my mouth & at times, too much & at other times possibly not enough~ However, as the breath that God has granted me, it’s for more than just breathing, but to speak truth to power, to speak to encourage & not to discourage, it’s to bless & not mess, & it’s to show the Love of Jesus’ that resonates from the inside out!! I Pray that I am being of obedience to God when I open my Mouth🙏🏾😔
Thank you for the Reminder😉