Cutting remarks

There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, but the tongue of the wise promotes health. — Proverbs 12:18

The writer of Proverbs describes all unwise person as “one who speaks like the piercings of a sword” (12:18). Our tongues can be like a multi-bladed Swiss Army knife when it comes to the variety of ways that we cut and destroy each other.

Unhealthy attitudes of anger, irritation, frustration, and impatience — even disappointment, stress, guilt, and insecurity — all contribute to our damaging speech. And as we cut with our words, we wound and divide friendships and relationships. It’s no wonder that the infamous list of seven things that are an abomination to the Lord includes anyone who “sows discord among brethren” (Prov. 6:16-19).

How do we stay off that list? For starters, we need to watch what we say. Gossip and slander are out, and words that hurt instead of heal are not welcome. Boasting, lying, and all the rest of the ways we use words to hurt and divide need to be gone as well. In their place, words that extend love and the healing power of forgiveness, mercy, and truth should rule our words and relationships. After all, where would we be if Jesus hadn’t spoken words of forgiving love and grace to us?

So, put the “knife” away and use your words to help and heal. — Joe Stowell

Lord, put a seal upon my lips

Help me to guard with care

The things I say and swift repeat;

O tongue of mine, beware! — Bosch

READ: Proverbs 12:17-22

Our words have the power to build up or tear down.

The Bible in one year:

• Song of Solomon 1-3

• Galatians 2