www.bible.com/1713/pro.18.21.csb
Never thought much about my words growing up. Just said what came to mind. They were just words, after all. But as I’ve matured, I’ve learned that words mean much more. Our country was founded on words, words which were defended by blood and treasure. Our faith is built on words, the Word. His word is contain on the several Bibles on my desk and computer. we are a people who pride ourselves on memorizing those words and reciting them when we need them, or when we want to encourage others. We need words, because they both shape our reality and reflect upon it.
So when the Bible says that we live and die by the power of the tongue, I don’t think it’s about our ability to taste. It is about our language. Our words can lift up and tear down. Our words can echo within us for decades, becoming the mantras we remember from childhood that define who we become. And sometimes only the Word can change those internal conversations and memories and cleanse them so we can be free.
Parents be careful what you say to your children. Children beware what you say to your parents. Watch every careless idle word, because even those can come back to haunt you. Our words are life and death, and have eternal consequences.
And still the Lord entrusts us to repeat the story of salvation. Upon our lips is the retelling of the gospel story, so that others may hear and live. We are Christ’s ambassadors, and from us others hear the wonderful story of how a Creator God desires to save those He loves by sending His Son to show them what true love looks like. We have the honor and the privilege of sharing that story. That story is told in words. Consider a great privilege then Christian that you too have been called to share the story.
Father God, fill my mouth with good things. Fill my heart with an abundance of joy and love. Help me fill others today with the good news of Jesus. In His Name, Amen.
Meritt Musings 