“To watch over the mouth and tongue is to keep out of trouble.” (Proverbs 21:23 NRSV)
We can bless with our words and we can hurt with our words both intentionally and unintentionally. The hard part is being sure that what we are saying will build others up not tear them down in any way. Once we speak words they can never be taken back. So, we must choose our words with great care.
Words spoken are rarely forgotten by the person they are spoken to. Harsh, angry, judgmental and hurtful words are almost always remembered. The question is, what do we want others to remember us uttering – loving, uplifting, and life-giving words or harmful and damaging words? We must use care and think before we speak.
A safe way to speak loving words is to prayerfully imagine Jesus speaking through you to Himself in others. Allow Him to use your words to bless and encourage, to build up and strengthen. That way you are watching over what you say and you will more than likely keep out of trouble.
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