The Power of Your Words

Anatomy tells us that the tongue is no more than a 70 gram, 8.3 cm slab of mucous membrane wrapped itself around an array of muscles that helps you to taste, chew, and talk. But when the Bible talks about the tongue it is talking about what the tongue represents: our words. Proverbs 18:21 says, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
Incredible statement. The tongue has the power of life and death! Meaning, it can either bless, heal, love, and encourage. Or, it can curse, harm, hate, and discourage.

You may have heard the expression, “Think before you speak.” Someone made up a good acronym from the word “THINK” that has to do with our words. I have added some verses that correspond with each idea.
T: Is it true?
Ephesians 4:25 – “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.”
H: Is it helpful?
Something might be true but not helpful to state.
Ephesians 4:29 – “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
I: Is it inspiring?
Philippians 4:8 – “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
N: Is it necessary?
1 Corinthians 10:23 – “I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but not everything is constructive.
K: Is it kind?
Some things might be true and wholesome, but they’re better left unsaid because they’re not kind.
1 Corinthians 13:4 – “Love is patient, love is kind.”

So, next time you open your mouth…THINK before you speak. Your words are powerful. Let that power be used to bring blessing and encouragement.