“If you have nothing good to say, then say nothing at all.” Many have heard this piece of advice before. While it is a great way to avoid awkward situations, there is so much more to watching what we say. The Bible speaks about this in detail in various passages. One in particular emphasizes the power of our words.
“For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:37
It has become so common to confess every feeling, pain, and disappointment that we hardly notice ourselves doing it. Think about the last time you had a pain, even something as minor as a headache. How many people did you mention it to? Perhaps someone asked you to go somewhere or do something, but all you could talk about was how that pain was affecting you. How quick are we to complain when something doesn’t go how we wanted it to or to claim an illness as part of us? Maybe you carry a disease in your body, but you already claim it as part of you. You refer to it as “my cancer” or “my high blood pressure.” It doesn’t belong to you; it’s a foreign entity living in your body. You were meant to be in good health!
See how our words can condemn us without us even realizing it. However, we have the power to turn things around. For the next three weeks, you’re invited to watch what you say. Examine if your words have been a blessing or curse to your life and those around you. No complaining, confessing defeat, claiming illness, or even speaking badly about others. Let your words be used to glorify God in your life, no matter the situation. Your words hold power; use them for good.
May the God of the Bible bless you!
Bishop Bira Joshua
