Proverbs 18:1-24 boldly reminds us that our words carry incredible power. Every word we speak has the potential to uplift or tear down, to bring healing or harm. We cannot take words back once they are released from our mouth. When our words have been offensive all the apologies we may offer are not going to change the person from feeling offended. This proverb warns us of the consequences when we carelessly use our words. God’s voice of love calls us to use our tongue to speak life—to build up ourselves and others with truth, kindness, and encouragement. We are to be wise about how we speak to others in all of our interactions. We don’t want to be a person that others feel it is a chore to communicate with us. Home, family, work or play we must remember that people may forget what we say and perhaps even who we are but most likely they’ll never forget how we made them feel. Yes, know what we believe, know why we believe it, then articulate it in a careful and intentional way projecting the love of Christ Proverbs 18:1-7 and Proverbs 18:13-17. 

Think about how Jesus spoke. His words brought life, hope, and healing to everyone He encountered. If He didn’t agree with someone’s opinion or had somewhere to be he never rudely interrupted the person or cut them off. He valued and respected them, listened to them, having patience, showing them grace, allowing them the opportunity to speak and say what they wished to say. Whether He was comforting the brokenhearted, teaching His disciples, or confronting injustice, His words reflected God’s love and truth. When you follow His example, your words can reflect His light in a world that desperately needs it. Choosing life-giving words takes intentionality. It means pausing before you speak and asking God to guide your tongue. It means using your voice to declare His promises, encourage others, and glorify His name. When you speak with wisdom and love, you’re planting seeds that will bear fruit.

Here’s How to Apply It To Our Life:

Reflect – Can you remember a time when you weren’t careful with your words, or perhaps rudely interrupted when you could have valued them more by allowing them the few extra minutes to speak? What is more important, the person’s feelings or you getting your way and having to be right?

Encourage Others – Reach out to someone who needs encouragement and share a kind word or uplifting message with them.

Reflect on Scripture – Meditate on Proverbs 18:21 and ask God to show you how to use your words wisely in every situation.

Your words have the power to shape lives. When you choose to speak with wisdom, love, and truth, you’re reflecting God’s character and planting seeds of hope and healing. So open your Bible, lean into His wisdom, and let your words be a source of life for everyone around you!

Scripture Focus: Proverbs 18:21

"life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit."

Prayer:

“Lord, thank You for reminding me of the power of my words. Teach me to use my tongue to speak life and bring healing. Help me to follow Jesus’ example and reflect Your love in everything I say. Guard my heart and guide my words so that they honor You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”