A Reflection On Speech

When I want my words to do good, not harm

Words are powerful. They can wound the spirit of another, often leaving permanent scars. They can sow seeds of corruption in innocent or wavering minds. They can soil good reputations, and they can foil good plans. They can carry a profound blessing, but they can also carry a powerful curse.

Is Proverbs 4:24 telling us simply to avoid vulgarities in our speech? Probably not. There are many forms of corruption and perversity: gossip, deception, mindless chatter, rumors, negativity, bitterness, insults, and more. All of these contradict the revealed truth of God. They run against the current of His will. In a very real sense, they slander and misrepresent the reality and beauty of His Kingdom and His character. So Scripture tells us to do away with irrelevant and improper speech.

Our words will carry a certain amount of power with them, whether for good or for bad. It is our responsibility to make sure they carry power that builds up rather than tears down; that reflects glory rather than corrupts the image of God; that honors truth rather than falsehood.

Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech.

Proverbs 4:24