In what ways can our words build up or tear down others? The Power in a Sentence “By the blessing of the upright a city is built up, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.” (Proverbs 11:11) • Scripture treats words as city-shaping forces—able either to construct protective walls or topple them in an instant. • Because every word leaves a mark, God calls us to speak as “upright” builders, not destructive voices. What Builds Up — Blessing Spoken Aloud • Encouragement: “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” (Proverbs 12:25) • Truth in love: “Speaking the truth in love, we will grow.” (Ephesians 4:15) • Praise to God that lifts people: When Paul and Silas sang hymns, prisoners listened (Acts 16:25). • Intercession: “The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail.” (James 5:16) • Gratitude: “Give thanks in all circumstances.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Result: People, families, and even whole communities become stronger, safer, and more hopeful. What Tears Down — Wicked Words • Gossip/whispering: “The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they sink deep.” (Proverbs 18:8) • Slander: “Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly, I will destroy.” (Psalm 101:5) • Harshness: “The tongue is a fire… setting on fire the course of life.” (James 3:6) • Lying: “The LORD detests lying lips.” (Proverbs 12:22) • Complaining: Israel’s grumbling kept an entire generation from the Promised Land (Numbers 14). Result: Trust erodes, relationships fracture, communities “overthrown.” Practical Ways to Bless Others With Speech 1. Pause and pray before responding (Proverbs 15:28). 2. Replace criticism with specific appreciation. 3. Share Scripture naturally in conversation (Colossians 3:16). 4. Offer public praise; give private correction (Matthew 18:15). 5. Keep promises—let “yes” be “yes” (Matthew 5:37). 6. Send notes, texts, or calls of affirmation the Spirit brings to mind. 7. Use names; they confer dignity (Isaiah 43:1). Guarding Our Mouths — The Heart Behind the Words • “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45) • Fill the heart with God’s Word daily; it will overflow in life-giving speech. • Submit thoughts to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5), then let surrendered thoughts form surrendered words. A Daily Challenge “Let no unwholesome word proceed out of your mouth, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.” (Ephesians 4:29) Speak today as a builder of cities—one sentence at a time. |
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