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The power of words is immense and the Bible teaches so. God created the world with His word (Genesis 1). Jesus is also the word of God. Scripture tells us that; without Jesus, nothing would have ever been (John 1:1-3).
Words can be in three forms:
But we are more intent on words in sound form than any other from. For a word in sound form can boomerang more than any other word. On this then, we may be compelled to use either "tongue" or "word" as need may be.
But it is not also an exaggeration to say; one could be saying much more in the heart than literally to sound it or write it. Yet whether in sound form, silent form, or written form, words can be lethal and deadly if used with little or no care.
The tongue or the mouth for that matter is one of the gate ways of human beings. And Jesus taught that what comes out of the mouth is simply an overflow of the heart (Matthew 15:11-18). For this is a vital part of any person.
- Sound form,
- Silent form
- Written form.
But we are more intent on words in sound form than any other from. For a word in sound form can boomerang more than any other word. On this then, we may be compelled to use either "tongue" or "word" as need may be.
But it is not also an exaggeration to say; one could be saying much more in the heart than literally to sound it or write it. Yet whether in sound form, silent form, or written form, words can be lethal and deadly if used with little or no care.
The tongue or the mouth for that matter is one of the gate ways of human beings. And Jesus taught that what comes out of the mouth is simply an overflow of the heart (Matthew 15:11-18). For this is a vital part of any person.
Scripture instructs us not to be reckless with the tongue (Matthew 12:36). Scripture goes on to warn that; It is by our words that we will either be justified or condemned (Matthew 12:37). Why is it so? For every word everybody utters will be revealed on the day of judgment (Luke 12:2-3).
Upon this, I ought to consult my inner person before I utter a word. That is; I have to be careful with my utterances because I am held responsible for each word I do utter. I should not be chasing my words, they should rather be chasing me. For words speak my inner man, except for pretense or double standards. Even then, it is reckless to pretend and it is potentially condemnable.
Upon this, I ought to consult my inner person before I utter a word. That is; I have to be careful with my utterances because I am held responsible for each word I do utter. I should not be chasing my words, they should rather be chasing me. For words speak my inner man, except for pretense or double standards. Even then, it is reckless to pretend and it is potentially condemnable.
Consider the case of one of the dearest but sometimes controversial disciple who is Peter. Despite having been one of the loveliest and mightily used disciples, it took him time to learn not to let his words fly out of his mouth unintentionally. For much as he is one person who was quick to get mysterious revelations of who Jesus is, he would equally easily put himself in a position to be easily made use of by the devil (Matthew 16:13-19).
Peter would not allow for meditation before he uttered a word. For immediately after having had the commendable revelation of who Jesus is, it is the same Peter (by his words) who tried to discourage Jesus from accomplishing His mission (Matthew 16:21-23). You realize that it was always Peter who would make rather unthoughtful responses (or had spearheaded it) than to mediate upon it.
Peter was always very quick to commit himself, but he was also very quick to deny he had said any such a thing. Recall when he spearheaded the commitment that he would never deny Jesus whatsoever (Matthew 26:35), (Mark 14:31). But Jesus having read the mind of Peter and that of his fellow disciples, He responded by telling Peter he would have denied Him three times before the cock crew (Matthew 26:34), (Luke 22:34), (Mark 14:30). And indeed it was so (Luke 22:54-62), (John 18:15-27), (Mark 14:66-72).
Why did Peter deny Jesus despite having committed never to forsake Him (Jesus)? It had not been with Peter's intention that he had said it. Rather Peter did not mean it and it was not planted in his heart. It only flew out of Peter's mouth and he had to chase it so he could limit the damage. Many of us Christians would or have found ourselves in such situations. Making many mistakes in speech because we lack patience to meditate before we utter a thing.
But we also learn the lesson how long it takes us to realize we are giving the devil an opportunity to use us. Consider for example that it took Peter a while to realize he was making empty commitments. He was only lucky that Jesus had given him an indicator if he had not kept his (Peter's) commitment. Peter had an opportunity to repent, it may not be so to another (Matthew 26:75). For it is all a matter of unthoughtful talk.
Peter would not allow for meditation before he uttered a word. For immediately after having had the commendable revelation of who Jesus is, it is the same Peter (by his words) who tried to discourage Jesus from accomplishing His mission (Matthew 16:21-23). You realize that it was always Peter who would make rather unthoughtful responses (or had spearheaded it) than to mediate upon it.
Peter was always very quick to commit himself, but he was also very quick to deny he had said any such a thing. Recall when he spearheaded the commitment that he would never deny Jesus whatsoever (Matthew 26:35), (Mark 14:31). But Jesus having read the mind of Peter and that of his fellow disciples, He responded by telling Peter he would have denied Him three times before the cock crew (Matthew 26:34), (Luke 22:34), (Mark 14:30). And indeed it was so (Luke 22:54-62), (John 18:15-27), (Mark 14:66-72).
Why did Peter deny Jesus despite having committed never to forsake Him (Jesus)? It had not been with Peter's intention that he had said it. Rather Peter did not mean it and it was not planted in his heart. It only flew out of Peter's mouth and he had to chase it so he could limit the damage. Many of us Christians would or have found ourselves in such situations. Making many mistakes in speech because we lack patience to meditate before we utter a thing.
But we also learn the lesson how long it takes us to realize we are giving the devil an opportunity to use us. Consider for example that it took Peter a while to realize he was making empty commitments. He was only lucky that Jesus had given him an indicator if he had not kept his (Peter's) commitment. Peter had an opportunity to repent, it may not be so to another (Matthew 26:75). For it is all a matter of unthoughtful talk.
With seeming mere words, the devil deceptively convinced Eve to eat of the forbidden fruit. With the same seemingly mere words, Eve convinced Adam to eat of it as well (Genesis 3). What seemed to be simple mere words have since brought suffering to the whole world.
Take for another example the case of the prophet Elijah and Ahab's wife Jezebel. Elijah was a mighty man of God. He performed one miracle after the other. Elijah commanded that there was no rain in Israel for three years and it was indeed so (1Kings 17:1). Mark you, he re-affirmed it by saying; "as my word is". He was being fed by the ravens (1Kings 17:2-6).
Elijah prophesied food in the widow's house. After having had no hope but to eat the least they had and die, they had enough upon Elijah's prophecy (1Kings 17:1-15).
He called fire from Heaven and indeed it did, and burnt the sacrifice at Mt. Carmel (1Kings 18:25-38). Elijah also called for fire from Heaven and indeed it did descend and burnt the captains and their fifties (2Kings 1:10). All these miracles were performed in the hands of the prophet Elijah and they do confirm that he was indeed a proven man of God.
Yet a simple written threat from Jezebel scared Elijah even to seem to forget how mightily God had previously used him (1Kings 19:1-2). Elijah ran away in fear (1Kings 19:3-10). Much as one may stand to castigate Elijah for not having taken himself as a serious and mighty man of God, we can't miss to learn the lesson how seemingly mere words can totally change the whole perception. Words can be this powerful as not to remember a thing of yourself.
Elijah prophesied food in the widow's house. After having had no hope but to eat the least they had and die, they had enough upon Elijah's prophecy (1Kings 17:1-15).
He called fire from Heaven and indeed it did, and burnt the sacrifice at Mt. Carmel (1Kings 18:25-38). Elijah also called for fire from Heaven and indeed it did descend and burnt the captains and their fifties (2Kings 1:10). All these miracles were performed in the hands of the prophet Elijah and they do confirm that he was indeed a proven man of God.
Yet a simple written threat from Jezebel scared Elijah even to seem to forget how mightily God had previously used him (1Kings 19:1-2). Elijah ran away in fear (1Kings 19:3-10). Much as one may stand to castigate Elijah for not having taken himself as a serious and mighty man of God, we can't miss to learn the lesson how seemingly mere words can totally change the whole perception. Words can be this powerful as not to remember a thing of yourself.
Elisha was another man of God who we could say never took his words seriously, or if he did take them seriously, then he must have been that careless. For because children had made a comment of his baldhead, he cursed them and indeed two bears came out of the bush and tore forty two of them (1kings 2:23-24). More over, he did so in the name of the Lord. Additionally, he cursed Gehaz his servant and indeed Gezaz developed leprosy instantly (2Kings 5). For words can be as much as what a person is.
Faith comes by the word of God
Scripture tells us that; "...faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17). If to say; the word spoken may be figured as the spear that penetrates the mind and the heart. Yet in opposite terms, lack of faith also comes by hearing the negative word for that matter.
Salvation comes by confession of the name of Jesus
For with seeming mere words, salvation presents (Romans 10:10). Thus to say, to be saved is and should not be out of wrestle, for what appears so simplistic is what brings us the much treasured priceless gift of eternal life.
Scripture tells us that; "...faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17). If to say; the word spoken may be figured as the spear that penetrates the mind and the heart. Yet in opposite terms, lack of faith also comes by hearing the negative word for that matter.
Salvation comes by confession of the name of Jesus
For with seeming mere words, salvation presents (Romans 10:10). Thus to say, to be saved is and should not be out of wrestle, for what appears so simplistic is what brings us the much treasured priceless gift of eternal life.
The Roman centurion
Scripture also tells us about the Roman centurion who begged Jesus to heal his servant. Jesus had insisted on getting to the centurion's home. But the centurion insisted that; Jesus' word would be enough to heal his servant.
Upon this, Jesus was amazed at the centurion's immense faith and did as he (the centurion) had asked (Matthew 8:5-10). A lot more miracles Jesus did perform with just saying; let it be, and it was. All this tells us how powerful words are.
Thus then, words should not be used recklessly because they could produce unintended and undesirable consequences. Or rather they should be used carefully, and they should be well intentioned.
Scripture also tells us about the Roman centurion who begged Jesus to heal his servant. Jesus had insisted on getting to the centurion's home. But the centurion insisted that; Jesus' word would be enough to heal his servant.
Upon this, Jesus was amazed at the centurion's immense faith and did as he (the centurion) had asked (Matthew 8:5-10). A lot more miracles Jesus did perform with just saying; let it be, and it was. All this tells us how powerful words are.
Thus then, words should not be used recklessly because they could produce unintended and undesirable consequences. Or rather they should be used carefully, and they should be well intentioned.
Still then, scripture is clear about how we ought to be careful with the use of the tongue. The tongue is the outlet or the passage out of every being.
For not to say something could be better than saying a thing because it is easier to stumble in word than if you held yourself (James 3:1-2). It is the tongue which bridles the whole body. A pilot controls a large ship with a seeming simple rudder. In a similar manner therefore, the tongue controls one's entire body.
For not to say something could be better than saying a thing because it is easier to stumble in word than if you held yourself (James 3:1-2). It is the tongue which bridles the whole body. A pilot controls a large ship with a seeming simple rudder. In a similar manner therefore, the tongue controls one's entire body.
A little match stick fire could set a large forest on fire. Similarly so, the reckless use of the tongue could set the entire body on fire in hell because it controls the entire body (James 3:5-6). On this then, it calls for extra care how one uses the tongue.
In simple language then, we ought to train and learn to use the tongue profitably. Not to say a thing with little or no care at all. We must avoid to say a thing unwillingly. But if to say something, it must be willful. Rather it should be well intentioned. That is not to say whatever and wherever (Leviticus 19:16). For in a multitude of words, sin may be unavoidable (Proverbs 10:19). David prays that God sets guards on his lips (Psalms 141:3), (Psalms 19:14).
Life and death is in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). A good soft answer can save one from danger, but rough words will stir up anger (Proverbs 15:1), (Proverbs 13:3).
Proverbs 10:20-21
The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth. The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.
Proverbs 10:31-32
The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out. The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness.
Proverbs 11:9
An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.
Proverbs 11:11
By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
Proverbs 12:6
The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.
Proverbs 12:13-14
The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble. A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompense of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.
Proverbs 12:18-19
There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health. The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.
Proverbs 13:2-3
A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence. He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.
Proverbs 15:4
A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.
Proverbs 15:7
The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.
Proverbs 15:26
The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.
Proverbs 16:13
Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.
Proverbs 16:24
Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
Proverbs 16:29-30
A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good. He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.
Proverbs 17:20
He that hath a froward heart findeth no good: and he that hath a perverse tongue falleth into mischief.
Proverbs 18:4
The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.
Proverbs 18:7
A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.
Proverbs 20:15
There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel
Proverbs 22:11
He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend.
Proverbs 25:11
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
Proverbs 26:28
A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.
Proverbs 5:1-4
My son, pay attention to my wisdom, listen well to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge. For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword.
Proverbs 6:1-5
My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge for another, if you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth, then do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor! Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids. Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler.
Proverbs 8:1-9
Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? On the heights along the way, where the paths meet, she takes her stand; beside the gates leading into the city, at the entrances, she cries aloud: To you, O men, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind. You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, gain understanding. Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right. My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness. All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse. To the discerning all of them are right; they are faultless to those who have knowledge.
Proverbs 9:7-9
Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse. Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you. Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning.
Proverbs 10:8
The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin.
Proverbs 10:11
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.
Proverbs 10:19-21
When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment
.
Proverbs 11:9
With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape.
Proverbs 11:12-13
A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue. A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret.
Proverbs 12:1
Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.
Proverbs 12:6
The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them.
Proverbs 12:14
From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him.
Proverbs 12:15
The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.
Proverbs 12:18
Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Proverbs 12:19
Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.
Proverbs 12:22
The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.
Proverbs 12:25
An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.
Proverbs 13:1
A wise son heeds his father’s instruction, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.
Proverbs 13:3
He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.
Proverbs 13:10
Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.
Proverbs 13:13
He who scorns instruction will pay for it, but he who respects a command is rewarded.
Proverbs 13:14
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.
Proverbs 13:18
He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.
Proverbs 13:20
He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.
Proverbs 14:3
A fool’s talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them.
Proverbs 14:7
Stay away from a foolish man, for you will not find knowledge on his lips.
Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:2
The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.
Proverbs 15:4
The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
Proverbs 15:10
Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die.
Proverbs 15:12
A mocker resents correction; he will not consult the wise.
Proverbs 15:28
The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.
Proverbs 15:31-32
He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise. He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding.
Proverbs 16:23
A wise man’s heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction.
Proverbs 16:27-28
A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire. A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.
Proverbs 17:4
A wicked man listens to evil lips; a liar pays attention to a malicious tongue.
Proverbs 17:27
A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered.
Proverbs 18:2
A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions.
Proverbs 18:6-8
A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating. A fool’s mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man’s inmost parts.
Proverbs 18:20-21
From the fruit of his mouth a man’s stomach is filled; with the harvest from his lips he is satisfied.
Proverbs 19:1-2
Better a poor man whose walk is blameless than a fool whose lips are perverse. It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way.
Proverbs 20:19
A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.
Proverbs 21:11
When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; when a wise man is instructed, he gets knowledge.
Proverbs 21:23
He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.
Proverbs 23:9
Do not speak to a fool, for he will scorn the wisdom of your words.
Proverbs 24:1-2
Do not envy wicked men, do not desire their company; for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble.
Proverbs 24:28
Do not testify against your neighbor without cause, or use your lips to deceive.
Proverbs 25:11-12
A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man’s rebuke to a listening ear.
Proverbs 26:4-5
Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be like him yourself. Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.
Proverbs 26:7
Like a lame man’s legs that hang limp is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.
Proverbs 26:9
Like a thorn bush in a drunkard’s hand is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.
Proverbs 26:22
The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man’s inmost parts.
Proverbs 26:23-25
Like a coating of glaze over earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart. A malicious man disguises himself with his lips, but in his heart he harbors deceit. Though his speech is charming, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart.
Proverbs 26:28
A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin.
Proverbs 28:13
He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
Proverbs 28:23
He who rebukes a man will in the end gain more favor than he who has a flattering tongue.
Proverbs 29:1
A man who remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed– without remedy.
Proverbs 29:20
Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
Proverbs 30:5-6
Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.
Proverbs 30:10-11
Do not slander a servant to his master, or he will curse you, and you will pay for it. There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers;
Have you labored to find out why your word no longer carries as much weight? For many a time when God has granted us the power to make our word effective, we have tended to use it to effect and express our selfish pride.
Consider that much as our Master who is Jesus kept on desisting from cursing but to bless (with the power in His word), those who believe in Him and pray in His name would love to use the same power they have assumed in God to express their selfish pride and ego which is only but to destroy.
The two disciples James and John had urged Jesus to call fire from heaven because they hadn't been received well amongst the Samaritans (Luke 9:53-54). Jesus having come to save rather than to destroy, He did not fulfill their selfish wishes.
As that, it is indeed true that the devil can take advantage of God's power in us (which should be but for God's work) to destroy than to give life (Luke 9:55-56). Jesus did not use a single bit of the power of His word to curse or to destroy. He knew His word carried power and He thus used it carefully and constructively. Will you use your words carefully and constructively? If you will, then be assured of God's power on your tongue.
Peter used the power of his tongue to effect the death of Ananias and his wife Sapphira (Acts 5:1-10). Well as many people would argue that it was in response to Ananias' unfaithfulness. But who is without sin? He who is without sin, let him be the first to cast a stone (John 8:7).
Do you recall that if Peter had strictly and closely been judged, he would have never made it? Peter was because he had been given time to transform. Couldn't he have better counseled Ananias than to castigate him? For Ananias and Sapphira died on the permission of Peter.
Do you realize that God would love to consult with many of us (His servants) (just as He consulted with Abraham before He destroyed Sodom Gomorrah) before He does a thing.
Abraham interceded that Sodom and Gomorrah be spared (Genesis 18:16-33). But to many of us, much of our opinion would be dictated by our selfish satanic emotions which are but to destroy.
It would only be a display of our continued selfish intentions. One would relish having such power as to have their word effected no matter what results it brings. God loves to give us His power to save rather than to destroy.
Life and death is in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). A good soft answer can save one from danger, but rough words will stir up anger (Proverbs 15:1), (Proverbs 13:3).
Proverbs 10:20-21
The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth. The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.
Proverbs 10:31-32
The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out. The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness.
Proverbs 11:9
An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.
Proverbs 11:11
By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
Proverbs 12:6
The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.
Proverbs 12:13-14
The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble. A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompense of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.
Proverbs 12:18-19
There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health. The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.
Proverbs 13:2-3
A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence. He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.
Proverbs 15:4
A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.
Proverbs 15:7
The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.
Proverbs 15:26
The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.
Proverbs 16:13
Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.
Proverbs 16:24
Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
Proverbs 16:29-30
A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good. He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.
Proverbs 17:20
He that hath a froward heart findeth no good: and he that hath a perverse tongue falleth into mischief.
Proverbs 18:4
The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.
Proverbs 18:7
A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.
Proverbs 20:15
There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel
Proverbs 22:11
He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend.
Proverbs 25:11
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
Proverbs 26:28
A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.
Proverbs 5:1-4
My son, pay attention to my wisdom, listen well to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge. For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword.
Proverbs 6:1-5
My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge for another, if you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth, then do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor! Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids. Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler.
Proverbs 8:1-9
Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? On the heights along the way, where the paths meet, she takes her stand; beside the gates leading into the city, at the entrances, she cries aloud: To you, O men, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind. You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, gain understanding. Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right. My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness. All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse. To the discerning all of them are right; they are faultless to those who have knowledge.
Proverbs 9:7-9
Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse. Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you. Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning.
Proverbs 10:8
The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin.
Proverbs 10:11
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.
Proverbs 10:19-21
When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment
.
Proverbs 11:9
With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape.
Proverbs 11:12-13
A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue. A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret.
Proverbs 12:1
Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.
Proverbs 12:6
The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them.
Proverbs 12:14
From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him.
Proverbs 12:15
The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.
Proverbs 12:18
Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Proverbs 12:19
Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.
Proverbs 12:22
The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.
Proverbs 12:25
An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.
Proverbs 13:1
A wise son heeds his father’s instruction, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.
Proverbs 13:3
He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.
Proverbs 13:10
Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.
Proverbs 13:13
He who scorns instruction will pay for it, but he who respects a command is rewarded.
Proverbs 13:14
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.
Proverbs 13:18
He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.
Proverbs 13:20
He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.
Proverbs 14:3
A fool’s talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them.
Proverbs 14:7
Stay away from a foolish man, for you will not find knowledge on his lips.
Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:2
The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.
Proverbs 15:4
The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
Proverbs 15:10
Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die.
Proverbs 15:12
A mocker resents correction; he will not consult the wise.
Proverbs 15:28
The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.
Proverbs 15:31-32
He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise. He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding.
Proverbs 16:23
A wise man’s heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction.
Proverbs 16:27-28
A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire. A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.
Proverbs 17:4
A wicked man listens to evil lips; a liar pays attention to a malicious tongue.
Proverbs 17:27
A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered.
Proverbs 18:2
A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions.
Proverbs 18:6-8
A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating. A fool’s mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man’s inmost parts.
Proverbs 18:20-21
From the fruit of his mouth a man’s stomach is filled; with the harvest from his lips he is satisfied.
Proverbs 19:1-2
Better a poor man whose walk is blameless than a fool whose lips are perverse. It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way.
Proverbs 20:19
A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.
Proverbs 21:11
When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; when a wise man is instructed, he gets knowledge.
Proverbs 21:23
He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.
Proverbs 23:9
Do not speak to a fool, for he will scorn the wisdom of your words.
Proverbs 24:1-2
Do not envy wicked men, do not desire their company; for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble.
Proverbs 24:28
Do not testify against your neighbor without cause, or use your lips to deceive.
Proverbs 25:11-12
A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man’s rebuke to a listening ear.
Proverbs 26:4-5
Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be like him yourself. Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.
Proverbs 26:7
Like a lame man’s legs that hang limp is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.
Proverbs 26:9
Like a thorn bush in a drunkard’s hand is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.
Proverbs 26:22
The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man’s inmost parts.
Proverbs 26:23-25
Like a coating of glaze over earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart. A malicious man disguises himself with his lips, but in his heart he harbors deceit. Though his speech is charming, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart.
Proverbs 26:28
A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin.
Proverbs 28:13
He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
Proverbs 28:23
He who rebukes a man will in the end gain more favor than he who has a flattering tongue.
Proverbs 29:1
A man who remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed– without remedy.
Proverbs 29:20
Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
Proverbs 30:5-6
Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.
Proverbs 30:10-11
Do not slander a servant to his master, or he will curse you, and you will pay for it. There are those who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers;
Have you labored to find out why your word no longer carries as much weight? For many a time when God has granted us the power to make our word effective, we have tended to use it to effect and express our selfish pride.
Consider that much as our Master who is Jesus kept on desisting from cursing but to bless (with the power in His word), those who believe in Him and pray in His name would love to use the same power they have assumed in God to express their selfish pride and ego which is only but to destroy.
The two disciples James and John had urged Jesus to call fire from heaven because they hadn't been received well amongst the Samaritans (Luke 9:53-54). Jesus having come to save rather than to destroy, He did not fulfill their selfish wishes.
As that, it is indeed true that the devil can take advantage of God's power in us (which should be but for God's work) to destroy than to give life (Luke 9:55-56). Jesus did not use a single bit of the power of His word to curse or to destroy. He knew His word carried power and He thus used it carefully and constructively. Will you use your words carefully and constructively? If you will, then be assured of God's power on your tongue.
Peter used the power of his tongue to effect the death of Ananias and his wife Sapphira (Acts 5:1-10). Well as many people would argue that it was in response to Ananias' unfaithfulness. But who is without sin? He who is without sin, let him be the first to cast a stone (John 8:7).
Do you recall that if Peter had strictly and closely been judged, he would have never made it? Peter was because he had been given time to transform. Couldn't he have better counseled Ananias than to castigate him? For Ananias and Sapphira died on the permission of Peter.
Do you realize that God would love to consult with many of us (His servants) (just as He consulted with Abraham before He destroyed Sodom Gomorrah) before He does a thing.
Abraham interceded that Sodom and Gomorrah be spared (Genesis 18:16-33). But to many of us, much of our opinion would be dictated by our selfish satanic emotions which are but to destroy.
It would only be a display of our continued selfish intentions. One would relish having such power as to have their word effected no matter what results it brings. God loves to give us His power to save rather than to destroy.
The entire human being is to be treasured. For it is equally important that we keep a pure heart, control the mind and become wholesome. For consider that it is not only what you have or haven't said loudly. Take for example that while you haven't said it, but in your heart, it is well known both to you and to God that you have said it.
Upon this, it is equally inexcusable to have imagined it even when not loudly sounded it. For to speak is simply an expression or the fruit of who exactly one is. Rather it is simply an overflow of what one is in their heart.
What matters then is the source from which it comes. Jesus taught that even when you do not seem to have literally done it, it is already counted as sin (Matthew 5:28). As that, to be wholesome is to bear the fruit of the Spirit. In this case, much more so the fruit of "self control" (Galatians 5:22-23).
For much as all the rest rather selfishly used the power in their word to curse, Jesus used the power in the same to save and bless. This is how Jesus is immensely the true Savior who was promised to us. Desist from chasing words. Let words chase you. INTEND IT WHEN YOU TALK.
Upon this, it is equally inexcusable to have imagined it even when not loudly sounded it. For to speak is simply an expression or the fruit of who exactly one is. Rather it is simply an overflow of what one is in their heart.
What matters then is the source from which it comes. Jesus taught that even when you do not seem to have literally done it, it is already counted as sin (Matthew 5:28). As that, to be wholesome is to bear the fruit of the Spirit. In this case, much more so the fruit of "self control" (Galatians 5:22-23).
For much as all the rest rather selfishly used the power in their word to curse, Jesus used the power in the same to save and bless. This is how Jesus is immensely the true Savior who was promised to us. Desist from chasing words. Let words chase you. INTEND IT WHEN YOU TALK.
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