February 28 -The Use of Words

Words come out of our mouths every day. Some of us are more talkative and others are persons of few words. There are those who are better able to express themselves and those who find it difficult. If our words are the expressions of our mind and heart, then it is very important for us to gauge and control our words. We use our words to lie and to slander, hurting ourselves and others. On the other hand, we may use our words constructively in collaboration with God and His purpose.

The negative use of our words may bring sins and transgressions upon us. When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. Wisdom comes to those who are careful with their speech. Once the words come out, it is very difficult to take them back. It is better not to say anything than to say the wrong things. On the Mount of Transfiguration, Peter did not know what to say but he uttered some meaningless words anyway.

One of the Ten Commandments prohibits the taking of the Lord’s name in vain. We are not to blaspheme the Lord’s name by our careless words. The opposite of blasphemy is praise. The psalmist encourages us to bless the Lord with shouts of joy, with new songs and with musical instruments. Music is a way to worship God and express God’s goodness. When we sing of God’s goodness, we use our tongues constructively.

Another way of using our words constructively is to collaborate with God. We may repeat God’s Word that is upright and true, filled with righteousness and justice. Praying His Word and teaching His precepts are in collaboration with God. Merely sharing your thoughts is not edifying most of the time. God’s Word is powerful in creation, He spoke and it came to be, He commanded, and it stood firm. When we declare God’s Word and His heart, when we declare His will, our words of faith can move mountains and cause things to come about. Yes, your words may collaborate with God’s Word and you can see miracles happening in your life.

Are your words acceptable in God’s sight? Consider everything you say as an offering to the Lord. You are not just expressing yourself but declaring who God is and what He can do in your life. Speaking one’s mind is not the most constructive thing for there is much darkness within our hearts. When your words are Christ-centered, God is glorified.

Are your words constructive or destructive? Is Christ part of your speech? Are you speaking to honor God or to defame God? Ask God now to take control of your speaking faculties for His glory.