GUARD YOUR WORDS
When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.
James 3:3-5 (NIV)
How’s your heart? Have you ever been asked that question? It’s hard to know how to answer, but the truth is there’s a way to know how your heart is really doing. The key is to trace your words. Your words reveal what’s in your heart. Are your words full of life, hope and kindness, or are they negative, angry or filled with fear? The point is your words reveal the condition of your heart. When my heart is healthy and spiritually in tune, my words are filled with hope and life. When I’m exhausted or dry in my walk with God, my words reveal that.
Words have started wars, created addictions and crushed peoples’ souls. You may even have some shrapnel in your heart right now from a word carelessly fired at you. We have all been affected by words. Unfortunately, negative words can have a tremendous effect on our lives. James above wants us to know that our words can be used as a blessing or a curse. We must watch the words we speak in anger; however, on the flip side, your words today can heal and create new life. Look for the people God has surrounded you with and speak life that causes their souls to flourish and grow. Choose words to build up in a culture that constantly tears down. So many of us wonder how we can have a huge impact. I’m convinced that if you simply use your words to speak in life and truth to people, then your impact will be radical. Look for opportunities to speak hope into people today and watch what God does. Your words matter! Jesus didn’t see people as they were; He saw them as they would be. We shape the future by speaking into people and shaping their destinies. I’m in ministry because someone saw something in me, encouraged me and spoke life into me. Your words can create futures, possibilities and new realities, but you have to allow God to fill you with His Spirit. Then, He will use your words and life to build up others.
APPLICATION: Allow your words to be a blessing to people today instead of a curse.
PRAYER: Ask God to reveal who around you needs to hear words of blessing today. Ask the Spirit if there is anyone in your life who has been negatively affected by your words. Ask Him what words you can share with them. Be faithful wherever He leads.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?