We learned as kids that words can’t hurt you, but as adults, we know they can very much. We knew it as kids, too, but trying to save face in a little body required believing a lie. I understand why English is such a complex language to learn and comprehend.
For instance, how is it that some words become obsolete? Did they expire? How did the “altar” become a “stage” in some churches? Stages are for shows. Was the word “altar” offensive? To whom and why? How did slang come about? Who makes up those silly words that mean something else? Then there’s the southern way of throwing out an insult that sounds like a blessing…at first. It’s an art, it really is, and I don’t have it. More likely, I’m the one standing there thanking you for insulting me. I try to think the best of people. If I ever meant to offend you, you’d know it, but sometimes I don’t mean to and don’t know I did unless you tell me or someone else does.
Encouragement is so important to the strength and well-being of a fellowship. People need soft words as a balm for their hurting hearts and shallow faith. Comfort comes from loving consolation, and measured correction blesses the wayward. Many a relationship has been spared by a sincere verbal apology. Cheering inspires strength and perseverance in the weak, and clear, concise guidance rights the confused. Many a lowly, depressed soul has found hope in the words of someone who cared enough to be their advocate, defender, and friend.
On the other hand, silence can be just as important. When the compulsion to speak is hard to resist, it’s the best time to consider staying quiet. When we know our words aren’t good, and we do know, we can shut our lips to spare another. When we feel our ego crafting a response, we can choose our battle and let it slide. When a situation calls for facts, and all we have to offer is an opinion, we can remain silent. When our words won’t help in a situation we can’t control, we can listen without speaking. Advice is only given when requested, and even then, the words are gentle toward the receiver.
Pausing before expressing ourselves is vital to our ability to live peacefully with each other in society. Scripture reminds us several times to carefully consider our words. Here are a few:
Let your words speak grace to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29
There is a time to speak and a time to keep silent. Ecclesiastes 3:7
I tell you that people will have to answer on Judgment Day for every useless word they speak. Matthew 12:36
The words I speak to you are Spirit, and they are life. John 6:63
Do not be rash with your mouth,
And let not your heart utter anything hastily before God.
For God is in heaven, and you on earth;
Therefore let your words be few. Ecclesiastes 5:2
A fool has no delight in understanding,
But in expressing his own heart. Proverbs 18:2
Kind words are like honey- sweet to the soul and healthy to the body. Proverbs 16:24
There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword,
But the tongue of the wise promotes health. Proverbs 12:18
Speak wisely; words matter.
A LIVING STONE 