Walking with the Wise #126: Cutting Concern

“There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
—Proverbs 12:18

Words can wound or heal. Like a scalpel, words can cut. It takes a skilled compassionate person to use words correctly. In the hands of someone with no compassion, words can hurt. But in the hands of someone motivated by love or concern, words can be used to heal. When we are inconsiderate or rash with our words, we can cut and severely wound others. Each of us carries scars from word battles over the years. A disapproving parent, an unforgiving, badgering, or condescending spouse, loved one, or boss can leave scars on our soul that mold and shape us for years to come.

As believers in Christ, we want Christ’s words to be our words. As the life of the Son of God grows up in us, our speech is transformed. We want to speak encouraging words, we want to be the change agents through whom God speaks words of peace to help and build up others for God’s glory.

How are your words? How are you wielding your scalpel? Are you using your words in a loving manner, seeking to benefit those to whom your words are directed? Or do you want to wound and scar them because of past hurts you feel? If we are to live the life of Christ, we must let God transform our speech, making every effort to build up, not tear down—to seek the benefit and blessing of others, not to burden them with words of fighting, fear or frustration. Speak the truth in love; let God use you to be a fountain of blessing to others. Amen.