Words Kill, Words Give Life

DAY 16- Proverbs 18

The Bible is full of verses warning about how evil our tongue can be and the harm that it can cause. As a Christian, things like gossip, slander and frivolous talk are harmful to my spiritual growth. And, they are detestable to God.

Such talk makes me a fool and this chapter cautions about the words of fools. "Fools care nothing for thoughtful discourse; all they do is run off at the mouth." -v2 "A fool's lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating." -v6 "He who answers before listening- that is his folly and shame." -v13 "Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit- you choose." -v21

I think it's very easy for me to get caught up talking and slip into mindless, meaningless talk or gossip. I often find that I want to be funny and amusing when talking to friends (it's my personality) and that can lead to crude talk. Other times I let my frustrations come out in the form of gossip or slander, or simple complaining. I need the Lord's help to turn my conversations towards praise and encouragement if I wish to uplift others. Probably most of all, I need to ask Him to help me keep my mouth shut more often, and listen more. Nobody ever seems to mind being around a good listener.