Someone once said, "Thoughts are the children of one's brain, and words are the garments they wear. Too many people dress their thoughts with words that make them look like tramps." Solomon said, "Keep thy heart will all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life" (Proverbs 4:23). Words are our tools of communication, and they are powerful. They can wreck homes, destroy lives, ruin businesses, and leave congregations torn asunder. Words stir human emotions and passions to great heights or horrible depths.
Words that hurt include tale bearing (Proverbs 11:13; 16:28; 18:8; 20:19). Some words are not based on facts, such as unjust criticism. Sarcasm or jesting at a serious moment can pierce like a sword (Proverbs 12:18). Even flattery can hurt because by its very nature it is insincere (Proverbs 26:28; 29:5).
On the other hand, there are some words that help. There are healing words (Proverbs 10:11). So many people are longing for healing words today. When passions are high and difficulties arise, stop and think, weigh words, speak and let the answer be a soft one. Some words are uplifting (Proverbs 12:25). They lighten heavy loads. Words need to be spoken in a timely fashion (Proverbs 15:22,23). Saying the right thing at the right time is an art that is learned. Words must also be skillful (Proverbs 25:11,12). The word that is "fitly spoken" is both skillful and valuable.
It takes the right kind of heart to use the right kind of words in the right way and at the right time. This is the heart all Christians must have. No wonder Solomon had so much to say about our words and the way we use them. We must also remember the words the Psalmist, "Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips (Psalm 141:3).
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