The Weight of Words: Will Yours Wound or Heal?
The Weight of Words: Will Yours Wound or Heal?
Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble. Proverbs 21:23
It’s been said that the tongue has no bones, but it’s strong enough to break a heart.
In the Yoruba culture of West Africa, words carry deep meaning. A blessing spoken over a child is believed to shape their future. Likewise, words spoken in anger can linger for generations. Words shape our families, communities, and faith. But how often do we stop to consider the weight of our words?
A shop owner named Adé had been struggling with slow business. One afternoon, his apprentice, Kunle, made a mistake with a customer’s order. Frustrated, Adé snapped: “You’ll never get things right!” Kunle bowed his head in shame. Later, Adé realized his words had crushed the boy’s confidence. The next morning, he called Kunle aside and confessed, “I spoke carelessly. I know you are learning, and I believe you will improve.” Encouraged, Kunle worked even harder.
How can we use our words to build, rather than destroy? Here are three biblical principles for speaking life:
1.When emotions run high, pause. The Bible cautions us, ” … be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19 NIV) Whether you’re facing workplace gossip or a dispute with a neighbor, remember: “…quick to listen, slow to speak … slow to become angry.”
- Bless don’t curse. Jesus said, “Bless those who curse you.” (Luke 6:28) Instead of reacting with anger, search for words that heal. Scripture says, “kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body” (Proverbs 16:24).
- Consider talking less! The Bible gives it to us straight in this Proverb: Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble. (Proverbs 21:23)
Our words have power. Will yours bring destruction or life?