August 9, 2020
Proverbs 18:21 is such a stark admonition regarding the words we say. There is an old nursery rhyme: :Sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me. Such false words! In my mind, words are so much more harmful because we cannot see the extent of the woundings our words can do in the lives of others; we as a society have become so good at following the blighted counsel: :never let them see you cry!” How ridiculous! If people aren’t held accountable for the words they say, is there ever hope of them behaving differently?
On the other hand, the result of words of affirmation and loving accountability have obvious and wonderful results as people rise to meet the good we see in them. What cause for celebration, to watch the transformation!
Think of the words that have been spoken about you and do you; both the good words and the bad. What affect did such words produce in you? Now consider that same reflection in light of what you have said of others. Words are never just words!
Let us pray the brief but accurate prayer of Psalm 141:3-4:
Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. Do not turn my heart to any evil, to busy myself with wicked deeds
in company with those who work iniquity; do not let me eat of their delicacies. AMEN.
Preacher Woman 