Don’t underestimate the power of your words. Solomon didn’t!
By Dean Collins
Your mouth matters!
No, this is not a devotional about dental hygiene. It’s all about the words we speak. I’m also not writing to discuss proper grammar or the importance of a good vocabulary. This is about how your words can literally change the direction of a community.
Solomon gives us a clear contrast between wickedness and righteousness all through Proverbs chapter 11. The godless pay no attention to the impact of their words, and the results are enormous. According to verse 9, words from our mouths can literally destroy a person. Perhaps you can relate; you may have felt the sting of someone’s unkind word spoken about you or a family member in the past. In verse 12 we learn that belittling someone makes no sense. You may feel superior for a moment after your snide comment, but the damage to the victim of your words may last a lifetime.
You may feel superior for a moment after your snide comment,
but the damage to the victim of your words may last a lifetime.
Contrast this destruction to the blessing and flourishing that comes when we say and pray positive words and blessings over a person. Prayers offered for someone change not only a person. Our blessings impact our communities and cities, too. Solomon said when things go well with those who live godly lives, this literally changes the city. When godly people speak and act with kindness in their communities, the very towns where they live are transformed.
This focus on blessing and service to our communities brings flourishing. Solomon doesn’t say anything about the politicians or even the preachers. Apparently it’s the regular folks who live righteousness in their communities that bring change. It’s not the size of our bank accounts or how many lobbyists show up to create change on some issue that determines flourishing. According to Scripture, real community change and development happen when godly people actively bless others with their words and deeds.
Real community change and development happen
when godly people actively bless others with their words and deeds.
One who follows Jesus knows the importance of serving others is more important than living for self. God’s Word in Proverbs 11 tells us that when we live as Kingdom people focused on others, then we flourish like like a green leaf on the tree of life.
So today resist the temptation to speak harshly or with pride to anyone. Focus your words in prayer and blessing for those you encounter. The results will be good for the community where you live. When all Christ followers live with the intention of serving others and speaking kindness, we will see Heaven come down. Today let’s live in a way that reflects our understanding that things here should, in fact, be done as they are in Heaven.
Your time with God’s Word
Proverbs 11: 9-12, 25, 28, 30 ESV
Photo by Keira Burton from Pexels
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