A Prayer About Words That Heal

When I think about what I say

DEAR JESUS,

Your ministry was filled with words. You called disciples, taught crowds, rebuked the raging storm, and confronted religious hypocrites. You also spoke to heal the sick and the lame, to cast out demons, and to raise the dead. Words can be powerful, and I want to use mine the right way. I enjoy compliments. Those affirming words lift my spirit and draw me closer to the person giving them. Verbal encouragements have a similar effect. I confess that I do not always use this power righteously. My sinful tendency is to use words as weapons, trying to wound the object of my speech. I do to others what I do not want done to me. I need to hold my tongue and to speak healing words. That may mean a compliment or encouragement. It also could be an apology, to help mend a relationship. For that I need courage. Or it could be a verbal acknowledgment of someone’s pain, empathizing with the person and praying for him or her. For that I need sensitivity. Please help me use words that heal.

Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. Proverbs 12:18