Power

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

Proverbs 18:21 (ESV)

The tongue is powerful. We have a famous saying in English: 'Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me'. It isn't true!

If someone in authority uses their tongue to condemn us, their word has power. In countries with the death penalty, death and life are literally in the power of the tongue. If some ruler declares war with his tongue, he's demonstrating the truth of this proverb.

The tongue is powerful, but it's not something to be afraid of. If we recognise its power and seek to harness it, we'll do well out of it. Many people make a living by their spoken words.

We ought to be slow to speak and quick to listen. Our words can inadvertently do a lot of damage. Let's make sure our words are life giving and edifying for people.

'Dear Lord, we praise You for the words of Your mouth, which are a blessing to us. May we fear You as we ought, and seek life from Your decree. For Your glory we pray, amen'.

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