The language we use to communicate with another is like a knife. In the hands of a
careful and skilled surgeon, a knife can work to do great good. But in the hands of a
careless and ignorant person, a knife can cause great harm, cutting into ribbons instead of providing for healing. Exactly as with our words.
The Bible echoes this truth. Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” So, have you stabbed anyone lately? I have to admit, words are powerful like aknife. I’ve been cut, and I’ve done some stabbing myself.
Quick to Strike
The world around us tells us to speak our mind. After all, we have the right to say what we are thinking, right? If people don’t like it, they don’t have to listen. We say what’s on our mind without hesitation (slash!), and the result can be a deep wound.
Sometimes we try to pull back and retreat from our attacks, but even after you pull a
knife out, there is still pain. So our words can have lasting effects on our victims.
In contrast, words of healing and health are a rare prize. Compliment others on a job well done or encourage them to try again when they make a mistake. “What, are you kidding me – and miss the perfect opportunity for self-promotion?!”
But Why?
Why is it that people are so cautious in complimenting and building up, yet so quick to
criticize and bring down?
One word . . . pride. Whether we realize it or not, verbal stabs are an attempt to make someone else look bad, so that by comparison we look better.
It’s selfish, inconsiderate, and people won’t think you are cooler when you do it. If you
hang out with those who constantly “bad mouth” others, what makes you think they don’t do the same about you when you’re not around?
There is little risk in words of encouragement. When was the last time someone snapped back at you with a sharp comment for saying something uplifting to him or her? We like genuine compliments and encouraging words.
God’s Take
The Bible says much about words and the power of the tongue. It calls the tongue “an
unruly evil” that is impossible to tame, but admonishes us to seek perfection in
controlling our words. (James 3:8)
But how do we control our words if God Himself says it is impossible to tame the
tongue? The key is that it’s impossible to tame it by yourself. But with God all things are possible.
A Challenge
The Bible says much about words and the power of the tongue. It calls the tongue “an
unruly evil” that is impossible to tame, but admonishes us to seek perfection in
controlling our words. (James 3:8)
But how do we control our words if God Himself says it is impossible to tame the
tongue? The key is that it’s impossible to tame it by yourself. But with God all things are possible.