You must choose your words wisely as a believer, for doing so is a divine practice that can shape our relationships, influence our circumstances, and ultimately define our journey.

Today, on how to “Choose Your Words Wisely,” we will delve into the profound wisdom captured in Proverbs 18:21, and explore the power of our words, guided by the understanding that they hold the key to life and death.

Key Takeaway to Choose Your Words Wisely:

  • Our choice of words has a profound impact on our lives and the lives of those around us.

Anchor Bible Verse of the Day

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

Proverbs 18:21 (NKJV)

Our anchor verse of Proverbs 18:21 reminds us of the immense power embedded in our words. It goes beyond mere communication; it speaks to the creative and destructive potential our words carry.

The verse urges us to recognize the weight of our speech, understanding that the words we choose can either bring life, encouragement, and positivity or contribute to destruction and despair. Our words have consequences, both for ourselves and for others. We can use our words to bless or to curse, to heal or to hurt, to build up or to tear down.

Key Explanation

  • Eating its fruit: implies that the consequences of our words, whether positive or negative, will directly impact our lives. Our speech is a seed, and the fruit it bears depends on whether we choose words of life or words that bring harm.

Reflection on Choosing Your Words Wisely

Today, as we ponder the significance of our words, let’s consider the parallel wisdom found in Proverbs 15:4, which says:

A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.

This verse emphasizes the life-giving nature of positive speech, contrasting it with the spirit-breaking impact of negative words.

Today, I want you to reflect on your recent conversations. Have your words been a source of life, uplifting and nourishing those around you, or have they contributed to a sense of brokenness and discouragement?

Today, the purpose is to cultivate a wholesome tongue, recognizing that your words have the power to shape the environments you inhabit.

Most times, it’s so easy to underestimate the ripple effect of our words. Yet, every conversation, and every interaction, presents an opportunity to sow seeds of positivity and encouragement.

As you go about your day, let the phrase “Choose Your Words Wisely” echo in your mind, guiding your speech with intentionality.

How do we choose our words wisely?

The book of Proverbs gives us some practical advice on how to use our words for good and not for evil. Here are some of the principles we can learn from this book:

1/ Speak the truth in love: Proverbs 12:18 says, “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”

We should not lie, slander, gossip, or exaggerate, but we should also not be harsh, rude, or insensitive. We should speak the truth with grace and compassion, seeking to edify and encourage others.

2/ Listen before you speak: Proverbs 18:13 says, “To answer before listening – that is folly and shame.”

We should not be quick to judge, criticize, or interrupt others, but we should be attentive, respectful, and humble. We should seek to understand before we seek to be understood, and we should be willing to learn from others.

3/ Be slow to anger: Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

We should not let our emotions get the best of us, but we should control our temper and our tongue. We should not respond in anger, bitterness, or resentment, but we should be calm, gentle, and forgiving. We should not provoke or escalate conflicts, but we should seek peace and reconciliation.

4/ Speak less and listen more: Proverbs 10:19 says, “Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.”

We should not talk too much or too loudly, but we should be quiet and discreet. We should not boast, brag, or complain, but we should be thankful and content. We should not dominate or interrupt conversations, but we should give others a chance to speak and share.

These are some of the ways we can choose our words wisely and use them for God’s glory and our neighbor’s good.

As we do so, we will experience the benefits of a wise tongue: life, healing, joy, and peace.

It’s my prayer that God helps us to tame our tongues and to speak words that are pleasing to Him and helpful to others.

Call to Action

Today, I challenge you to consciously choose your words. Before responding in a conversation, ask yourself, “Are my words bringing life or contributing to negativity?”

Aim to uplift and encourage others through the power of positive speech. Remember, your words have the potential to shape not only your day but the days of those around you.

Choose Your Words Wisely. Choose life.

Prayer Points for Today

  • Wisdom in Speech: Pray for wisdom and discernment in your choice of words, that they may bring life and blessing to those around you.
  • Heart Transformation: Ask for a transformation of the heart, so that your words may flow from a place of love, kindness, and positivity.
  • Impactful Influence: Pray for the awareness of the impact your words can have, and for the strength to be a source of encouragement in all your interactions.

Let’s Pray

Our Father, I pray that today, our words may be a source of life. May we choose our words with intentionality, bringing positivity and encouragement to those we encounter. Grant us the wisdom to speak life into every situation, and may our words be a reflection of the love and grace You have poured into our lives.

In the precious and mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

My prayer for you today: I pray that your words may be a fountain of life, bringing joy, encouragement, and positivity to all those you encounter. May you experience the transformative power of choosing your words wisely.