October 23, 2022

Proverbs 12: 18 (NIV)

Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Even truthful words can damage.*

I find it easy to recall some of the reckless words that have pierced my spirit. Sadly, I can also remember a few occasions when such words came from my own mouth to cause damage to others. Whoever came up with, “Sticks and stones may break my bones . . .” didn’t know what he was talking about. We might wish that we were so thick-skinned that harsh words couldn’t penetrate to our heart. And I wish that my idle, thoughtless speech didn’t have the power to hurt others.

If words can have such power for evil, can’t they also have power for good? Yes; it just seems to take a little more prompting for us to recall those words. This proverb’s reminder that “the tongue of the wise brings healing,” was just what I needed to bring to mind some of those soothing words. I think of a Christian counselor who helped me when my first marriage was coming to an end. I often say that he wasn’t able to save my marriage but he saved me. My parents helped soothe my soul during that same chapter of my life. Many sermons have spoken words of wisdom just when I needed them. And God’s word has never failed to be the voice of comfort, encouragement, or admonition according to my need.

If you have been bruised by someone else’s words, immerse yourself in the word of God. Let his Spirit speak to you and soothe your soul. If Jesus can calm the sea with a simple command, he can certainly bring peace to the storms of your life. And when his healing has washed over you and restored your soul, allow yourself to be his instrument – his wise and gentle mouthpiece – of healing for others.

I am often amazed at the power of God’s Word, but I shouldn’t be.*