Words

I read today that the average person speaks 10,000 words a day.  If we are talking that much, our words probably have a purpose or an effect. What effect do your words have on others?

According to Bible, words have power. 

“The tongue has the power of life and death,” Proverbs 18:21

The words we speak are extremely important.  Jesus said,” But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." (Matthew 12:36-37)

This makes me think long and hard about some of the things I say.  Have you ever said anything and wished you could have the words back?  Once something is said, you can never take it back. You can apologize for things but you can never undo it. 

James gives us some insight into how we should react to each other.  “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,”  (James 1:19)

We are to be eager to listen.  Better listeners, understand better.  They work better with others.  They are better spouse and better colleagues.  Try using your ears twice as much as you use your tongue. 

Our words can be destructive or constructive.  They can bless and build up or they can hurt and destroy.  It is our choice to use our words to encourage others.

So how are you going to use your 10,000 words today?

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