“There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.” Proverbs 12:18

Have you ever taken a knife and just stabbed someone repeatedly? Hopefully not! But, I wouldn’t be surprised if everyone of us has done it with our words. God likens our sinful, hurtful speech to that of inflicting great wounds. Why would we do such a thing?

Self-defense: perhaps you have been hurt by someone, and the initial, sinful response is to hurt back, thinking that is the best defense. Instead of taking our wounds to the Lord for comfort, and then trying to bring our offense to the offender in self-control and humility, piercing words can result.

Impatience: maybe your child has made the same mistake over and over, or you just don’t have time for a co-worker’s incompetency…so you let them have it. Correction may be necessary, but if not under the Holy Spirit’s influence, piercing words can result.

Sinful Delight: there is something really bad about gleefuly sharing the sins of others for no redeeming purpose. Even when that person is not around, the words can travel and pierce them deeply.

The reality is, sinful hearts produce sinful words. This is why we need the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ. Not only to forgive our sins, but to empower us to honor Him with our lives, including our words. The contrast of this proverb to piercing words is “health” or healing words. Those healing words would include humbly resolving a conflict or offense, speaking words of genuine encouragement, showing loving interest and concern for another, sharing examples of God’s goodness in your life, and more.

Do you need the reminder today to be aware of what comes out of your mouth? Do you want your words to be healing? May we seek the sufficient grace of God to purify our words for His glory.  

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