“Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.”-Proverbs 12:18

Let's take a moment to consider the very important contrasting truths in this passage. In this brief verse, we read of two powerful ways words can be used. Our words can wound, damage, and cause hurt. On the other hand, our words can help, restore, and rejuvenate. Cutting or healing. We see two very distinct outcomes from the same source, our words. F. E. Marsh put it well: “We only need add one letter to words, namely, the letter s, and we make words into swords. What a difference between the two! There is a great difference in how a good thing is said. Let us mark these two things—what we say, and how we say it.” Our words and how we communicate them matter very much. And truth be told, it actually isn't hard at all to say something that cuts, that's rude, critical and harsh. Sadly, these kinds of words are easy to toss around; they come very naturally from our lips. This kind of language plays right into our sinful nature. What takes more effort, intentionality, and thought is using our words in ways that really do strengthen, build up, and benefit others. To use our words in this positive way takes God's hand. It requires our willingness to surrender to Him and allow Him to use us to speak words of healing, hope, and help. And let’s be clear, as Christians, without a doubt our call is to be those who use our words for healing!

In a variety of ways, the book of Proverbs describes how the godly are to use words as well as what is accomplished through helpful words. For example, “The words of the godly encourage many…”(Proverbs 10:21). Proverbs 15:7 puts it this way: “The lips of the wise give good advice…” Yet another verse in Proverbs reminds us of the plight of many around us who are struggling with worry, with anxiety, and how we can, with our words, be used to benefit another in that situation. Here’s how Proverbs 12:25 says it: “Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.” All of these passages remind us of the ways our words can bless and build up! The question is, is this how we’re using our words? Are we encouraging many? Is any good advice coming from our mouths? Are we looking for ways, praying for opportunities, to share a good word with another?

Proverbs 18:21 says, “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” Let’s be reminded, as Christians, we are to be life-givers! What we say should be that which is edifying in the moment (Ephesians 4:29)! If, when reflecting on these passages, we think to ourselves, “You know, cynicism readily flows from my mouth. Criticism is easy for me. I quickly rip others, put others down, make fun of others, etc.”, well, then it’s time to admit the problem, ask for forgiveness, plead for God’s help to change, and begin learning to speak that which heals. He will help! God is in the business of changing lives and then using us to encourage someone else. Truly, how remarkable that God can, and wants to, use us to uplift another soul. What a privilege and responsibility which shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Lord, please help us to be more like You, speaking to others only what is helpful, healing, and good! We ask this in Your name, Jesus! Amen.

Cheer up, friends!

-Scott