Words

Words

The talk of fools is a rod for their backs, but the words of the wise keep them out of trouble.

Proverbs 14:3

I remember one exciting Christmas as a child when one of my younger sisters received a Chatty Cathy doll. If we pulled the cord on the doll’s back, she spoke preset sentences. What fun we had! In real life, though, God has not programmed us with only a few phrases that we must repeat throughout our lives (although our kids might accuse us of repetition sometimes). He gave us the words of the language we have learned. How precious to choose words for their creativity, not for protection or harm. To inspire us in our choices, let’s look at what God’s Word has to say about our words:

Evil words destroy one’s friends; wise discernment rescues the godly. (Proverbs 11:9)

The godly speak words that are helpful, but the wicked speak only what is corrupt. (Proverbs 10:32)

Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. (Proverbs 16:24)

Fire goes out for lack of fuel, and quarrels disappear when gossip stops. (Proverbs 26:20)

In the end, people appreciate frankness more than flattery. (Proverbs 28:23)

Wise people treasure knowledge, but the babbling of a fool invites trouble. (Proverbs 10:14)

A gossip goes around revealing secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence. (Proverbs 11:13)

Your own soul is nourished when you are kind, but you destroy yourself when you are cruel. (Proverbs 11:17)

Father,

With the inspiration of your Word and the strength of your help, may we choose words today that protect our children, not harm them. Amen.