Death and Life Are in the Power of the Tongue
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: And they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” (Proverbs 18:21, KJV)
Words hold the power to bring life or death. Do you believe that? Scripture affirms this truth, underscoring the profound impact our words can have.
It might be tempting to limit this verse to our Christian confessions. However, it’s essential to first understand its original context, as Solomon intended it, before applying it to our lives today.
What did Solomon mean when he said this? How did the Jews who first heard it understand it? In Proverbs, Solomon often addresses the effects of speech on everyday life. For example, in Proverbs 16:28, he says:
“A froward man soweth strife: And a whisperer separateth chief friends.” (Proverbs 16:28, KJV)
Here, Solomon illustrates how gossip can destroy or kill friendships. In Proverbs 15:1, he states:
“A soft answer turneth away wrath: But grievous words stir up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1, KJV)
This verse highlights the contrast between words that calm and words that provoke anger. Who among us hasn’t experienced the power of words, whether by being hurt by them or regretting something we’ve said? Solomon emphasizes the everyday impact of our speech.
With this understanding, we can apply the verse to our lives today. Social media is one of the most powerful platforms for the impact of words. It’s well known that social media can increase anxiety and suicidal thoughts, robbing people of joy and peace. In some cases, cyberbullying has even led to suicide—leading to the literal death of people.
As Christians, there’s an even deeper application of this scripture. With God’s Spirit within us, we can speak His words, which give life and destroys death. If human words are powerful, how much more powerful are God’s words in our mouths?
We express God’s words in various ways—through meditation, confession, daily conversations, teaching, prophecy, and words of authority.
Whether in daily conversations or spiritual matters, God wants you to understand this: what you say matters. The comments you post, the emails you send, the texts you compose, the words you speak to your children, spouse, pastor, and others—all have the power to destroy or build up, to harm or heal, to kill or give life.
So, speak life.
Meditate
When was the last time you said something that got you into trouble? Reflect on this verse and consider how it applied to that situation.
Apply the Word
Be mindful of how you speak to others. This simple directive can be challenging. Remember, your words have the power to give life or cause harm. The Lord wants us to speak life into those around us.
Pray
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you control your tongue and guide your words, so that you may speak life to everyone you encounter.
Recommended Read
- Eating the Fruit of Your Lips
- Emotional potency of words
- Words Govern the Realm of the Spirit
- Unleash the power of words today
- All Deshen Daily Devotionals
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