Before You Breathe Fire

Every syllable ever spoken has accomplished something. And those words cannot be unsaid.

The weight of our words can bog someone down or lighten their load. One word of encouragement or truth can relieve the heaviest heart. One uttered out of malice can send someone into despair. Every word we speak has an effect; a consequence for either good or evil. It will accomplish one of the two.

The book of James has plenty of warnings about the power of the tongue. He warns that we should be quick to hear, but slow to speak. We should have discernment before opening our mouths. He mentions in James 1:26, “If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.” This is a strong statement and one that cannot be ignored. How do we handle our words? Or are they handling us? Are we measuring each one or spewing thoughts verbally before we’ve processed what they might accomplish? The tongue is “a fire, a world of unrighteousness”. It can burn down our very lives and stain our whole body. It’s a restless evil full of deadly poison. Let that sink in.

Our words are intended to bless and encourage others, not ignite destruction. This is why  we must always keep God’s word stored deep within. At a moment’s notice we must be ready to erupt with words of kindness, forgiveness and encouragement.

If our words are God’s words, then our speech with bring forth life and not death.

Consider what the Lord says in chapter 55 of Isaiah:

“[10] For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, [11] so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”

We can rest assured that the Truth we speak does not return void but will “accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.” When we speak the words of our King, what we say cannot be untrue or unfruitful. It cannot return null, but will accomplish His good purposes. What an incredible incentive to know Scripture and speak it – it can not and will not fail.

We must speak when spoken to. Listen to the Spirit within first then open your mouth. As obedient children of our Father we must consider the power of what we say. A word spoken from the flesh can burn a life to the ground, while the word of God brings forth life. Speaking too quickly may lead to ruin, but Godly thoughtfulness in our communication is nourishing and fruitful.

Father, help us filter every word we speak through Heaven. You have redeemed our speech. Our words are now yours and were bought with a price. Captivate us with your purposes so that every single syllable will echo your life and your love. We are your mouthpieces of reconciliation for a lost world.