Your Words Are Powerful


"The tongue has the power of life and death," Proverbs 18:24.
What a statement! Life and Death? That's pretty heavy stuff. In a sense the Proverb writer uses hyperbole to make a point, but you don't have to live long to discover its' legitimacy. All of us can recall times when a kind word was what got us through. There can be seasons when life is difficult and someone's words can be powerful enough to get us through. It's not only wonderful to receive those words, it's also wonderful to give them.
"Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!" Proverbs 15:23. Today you will have opportunities to be the one who says the right words at the right time. It may be a tense situation and you will be a demonstration of Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Or it may be that someone simply needs to be encouraged. 
Just as we've all experience a positive word carrying s through when things were difficult, we've also all experienced times when someone's words were devastating to us. Yet, even when someone uses their words to hurt us, it's amazing how powerful other people's words are in restoring us. 
At school, at home, at work, in the marketplace, and online you can be someone who brings life to people today. You have that much power in your tongue. You're like some sort of superhero. Use your power for good.

Following the Son,

James A Williams

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