Kill or Heal

by Anita Mondragon
 

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”  Proverbs 25:11

Timely words are works of art. -Unknown

Have you ever noticed the effect words have on folks? A hostage negotiator is trained to use certain phrases in quiet tones.  In most cases, this will calm the perpetrator, and resolve the conflict. Knowing the right time to speak words of love, encouragement, or rebuke, can be beneficial to both the one speaking, and the one listening.  But, the one speaking should consult God before saying anything. I’m sure we’ve all heard the old saying…”If you can’t say something nice…don’t say anything at all!”  We quote it enough to others when they blunder in their speech; yet most of us never take it to heart and follow that advice ourselves! There are so many verses in the Bible,  that talk about the power of our words.  In the book of James, it says, and I’m paraphrasing, that “the power of life and death is in the tongue!”  There are other references as well…”A soft answer turns away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger…”  God is letting us know, we can escalate or defuse situations by the words we speak!  Knowing WHEN to speak, and WHEN to be quiet shows wisdom…something I’m still striving for! Someone’s character can be killed in an instant with careless words spoken in gossip.  Most of the time, gossip is 40% truth, and 60% our own opinion.  To slander, or belittle someone with our tongues, is NOT being wise.  We need to be SLOW to speak.  Pray more…speak less! I don’t want to hurt and kill someone with my words!  I’d rather be an encourager…a healer!  HOW ABOUT YOU?


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