Has your speech ever gotten you in trouble? Perhaps you have said something that you wish you had not. Or maybe you have been on the receiving end of a biting comment or a thoughtless criticism. If so, you probably can appreciate the great damage that can come from harsh words.

The Bible recognizes the power of our words:

The tongue can bring death or life;
those who love to talk will reap the consequences.
Proverbs 18:21 NLT

Life and death? How powerful our words are! A few kind words can help a friend get through a difficult situation. A thoughtful “thank you” from a child can erase a parent’s weariness after a hard day’s work. A father’s loving encouragement has the capacity to shape a son’s future. On the other hand, words used falsely, harshly or negatively have the power of death. Are you familiar with the expression, “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me”? I completely disagree! The hurt words can inflict are deep and lingering. If you have ever been a victim of gossip, or slander you know very well that this is true.

Maybe we should take a moment today to think about how we’ve been using our words. A lot of the people around us could sure use some life-giving encouragement. In doing so, don’t be surprised if you get encouraged as well. That’s how it usually works.

(Aside form being the Pastor of WIN Ontario, Pastor Jong is also the Regional Director of Word International Ministries, Canada. He has a Certificate in Divinity Studies from Asian Theological Seminary and a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Arts from the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines. He and his wife Nicole have a passion for serving the Lord that goes back to their days in the youth ministry.)