Our words have the power to shape the lives of those around us. They can encourage someone to keep going, speak truth in love, or bring healing in a moment of pain. But they can also wound, spread lies, or cause division. The choice is ours: Will we use our words to bring life, or will we let them bring harm?
[00:00:37] Welcome to The Bible Speaks with your host Elgin Carelock.
[00:00:42] The Bible Speaks is a daily podcast dedicated to sharing the good news of Jesus Christ,
[00:00:49] rightly dividing the word of truth, and learning how to apply it to our daily lives.
[00:00:55] You may contact Elgin at the address given at the end of the broadcast.
[00:00:59] And now, here's Elgin.
[00:01:02] Brothers and sisters, I welcome you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit
[00:01:08] to another edition of Words of Inspiration.
[00:01:12] In our series, Walk with the Wise, a study in the book of Proverbs.
[00:01:20] Today we are diving into the power of words with our topic, Use Words Wisely.
[00:01:27] Our inspiration comes from Proverbs 18, verse 21, which reads,
[00:01:35] Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
[00:01:44] This verse is a powerful reminder that our words have the ability to bring life or cause destruction.
[00:01:52] Words have weight, and how we use them can have lasting effects on our relationships,
[00:01:58] our witness, and even our spiritual growth.
[00:02:02] So, we'll explore how to use our speech to bring life, encouragement, and truth to those around us.
[00:02:10] The Bible doesn't shy away from emphasizing how powerful words are.
[00:02:15] In fact, Proverbs 18 and 21 makes it clear.
[00:02:20] Our words can either build up or tear down.
[00:02:24] Think about moments when someone's kind or encouraging words change your day, or even your life.
[00:02:32] Now, consider the impact of hurtful words and how they can linger in our hearts.
[00:02:39] Our words have power to shape the lives of those around us.
[00:02:42] They can encourage someone to keep going, speak truth and love, or bring healing in a moment of pain.
[00:02:50] But they can also wound, spread lies, or cause division.
[00:02:55] The choice is ours.
[00:02:57] Will we use our words to bring life, or will we let them bring harm?
[00:03:03] Ephesians 4, verse 29 says,
[00:03:06] Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
[00:03:20] So, how do we use our words wisely?
[00:03:23] First, we must be intentional about speaking words that uplift and encourage.
[00:03:29] Speaking wisely isn't just about avoiding harmful or negative language.
[00:03:33] It's about using our voice to bring healing and hope.
[00:03:38] When someone is struggling, a word of encouragement can remind them of God's love and purpose for their lives.
[00:03:45] When someone needs guidance, speaking the truth in love can set them on the right path.
[00:03:52] Proverbs 12 and 25 says,
[00:03:55] Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.
[00:04:01] Being intentional with our words means looking for opportunities to uplift others.
[00:04:06] It's about choosing to speak with kindness and compassion, even when it's difficult.
[00:04:12] Wisdom in our speech also involves being truthful.
[00:04:17] But speaking the truth doesn't mean being harsh or judgmental.
[00:04:21] It means communicating honestly with grace and love.
[00:04:25] Jesus is the ultimate example of speaking truthfully yet compassionately.
[00:04:31] He used his words to teach, correct, and heal, always reflecting God's heart.
[00:04:39] Colossians 4 and 6 encourages us to
[00:04:43] Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
[00:04:53] When we speak truthfully, we reflect our commitment to God's wisdom.
[00:04:58] We become reliable witnesses of his grace, showing that we value integrity and honesty.
[00:05:06] Speaking wisely means being careful with our words, choosing to build others up rather than tearing them down.
[00:05:14] So here are some practical steps to harness the power of your words.
[00:05:19] Number one, pause before you speak.
[00:05:24] Take a moment to think before you respond.
[00:05:27] Ask yourself if your words will bring life or harm.
[00:05:31] Sometimes a brief pause can make all the difference.
[00:05:36] Number two, pray for wisdom.
[00:05:40] Ask God to give you wisdom in your speech.
[00:05:44] Psalm 19 and 14, reading from the New International Version says,
[00:05:51] May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
[00:06:00] Pray that your words would honor God and uplift others.
[00:06:05] Number three, choose words that heal.
[00:06:09] Be intentional about speaking words of encouragement, love and hope.
[00:06:15] If you see someone struggling, offer a word of support.
[00:06:19] If you see someone who needs correction, speak to truth and love, always aiming to help and not to hurt.
[00:06:27] And finally, be a good listener.
[00:06:31] Sometimes wise speech begins with listening.
[00:06:34] When you truly hear others, you can respond thoughtfully and with understanding.
[00:06:42] In Proverbs 18 and 21, we're reminded that our words have the power to bring life or death.
[00:06:49] As we walk with the wise, let's commit to using our speech to uplift, heal and point people to God.
[00:06:57] Let's be mindful of the impact our words have and choose to use them for good.
[00:07:04] Remember, speaking wisely reflects our commitment to God's wisdom and shows the world the transformative power of his love.
[00:07:13] Brothers and sisters, if this message has inspired you, share it with someone who needs encouragement.
[00:07:20] And as you go through your week, remember the power of your words and choose to speak life.
[00:07:27] I thank you for spending time with me on today.
[00:07:30] And I look forward to our time together on tomorrow.
[00:07:34] Until then, God bless.
[00:07:42] The Bible Speaks is sponsored by C Squared Realty and New Gen Construction Group to help spread the gospel to the corners of the earth.
[00:07:52] If anything you've heard poured into your life, please share it with someone.
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[00:08:12] You may contact Elgin at P.O. Box 5582, Ocala, Florida 34478
[00:08:23] or by email at thebiblespeaksonline at gmail.com
[00:08:31] Thank you.
[00:08:31] Thank you.