In what ways can you "speak peace to all" in your daily interactions? The Scriptural Call to Speak Peace “I will listen to what God the LORD will say; He promises peace to His people, His saints—do not let them return to folly.” (Psalm 85:8) The psalmist shows that God’s own speech is peace. If we are listening to Him, the same peace should flow from our mouths toward everyone we meet. Why Our Words Matter • Proverbs 18:21 reminds us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” • Jesus says, “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Matthew 12:34) Because Scripture is true and literal, every word we utter carries weight before God and before people. Practical Ways to Speak Peace Daily • Choose gentle tones – “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1) • Offer sincere encouragement – “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11) • Affirm truth without hostility – “Speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15) • Avoid gossip and slander – “Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly, I will silence.” (Psalm 101:5) • Respond to offense with blessing – “Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:28) • Apologize quickly and fully – “If your brother sins against you, go and be reconciled to your brother.” (Matthew 5:23-24) • Use Scripture itself – Quoting God’s promises of peace—such as John 14:27—can calm a tense moment. Cultivating a Heart That Overflows Peace • Daily time in the Word shapes speech (Joshua 1:8). • Regular confession keeps the heart soft (1 John 1:9). • Thankfulness crowds out complaining (Colossians 3:15-17). When Christ rules the heart, peaceful words become the natural overflow, allowing us to “speak peace to all” wherever He places us. |
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