Reckless words are something that many of us have suffered from, or inflicted upon others. Sarcasm, complaining and negative words can affect us far more than we might expect,and sadly we can become so used to saying or hearing reckless harsh words that we become desensitized to them.
The bible talks about the power of our words, and teaches us that, “the words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing”. (Proverbs 12:18)
When we use our words carelessly they can be just like a razor sharp sword which we use to thrust indiscriminately into or around other people, causing havoc wherever we go. In contrast is the person whose words are like a healing balm; encouraging, lifting up, and bringing wisdom and grace into every situation.
Deep down I think most of us want to be a person whose words are of value and are worth listening to. We all, to some degree want to be heard and I don’t think any of us want to be remembered as someone who was a “brute” or an “old shrew” with the words we spoke, or were known for.
What we put into our life is what will come out, for out of the mouth the heart speaks.
“A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of”. (Luke 6:45)
If we want our speech to be gracious and full of praise, encouragement and inspiration then God teaches us in His Word to fill our lives with those things. Instead of focusing on how often we “mess up” with the words we speak; how often we gossip, criticise, and are hurtful or fearful in our words, God encourages us to fill our hearts and minds with good things. When we focus and fill our minds and hearts with what is positive and loving it will flush out the negative.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things”. (Philippians 4:8)
Today, do a word inventory and check your speech. Think about surrounding yourself with people who are wise with their words, choose to listen to faith filled, positive words, and read words which are beneficial to you.
Ask forgiveness if you need to for any reckless harsh words and make a decision to be a person who speaks wisdom and healing wherever you go.
Prayer: Lord please forgive me for my words when they have been negative, and I have hurt both others and myself by speaking them. Help me to surround myself with words of wisdom and grace, so that my words are worth listening to. Would you please “set a guard over my mouth and keep watch over the door of my lips”. (Psalm 141:3) In Jesus Name Amen.