Choosing Life With Our Words Series

Series: Wisdom For Life [#16]

CHOOSING LIFE WITH OUR WORDS

Proverbs 10:12-21

Introduction:

Our text talks about how powerful our words really are. Sometimes, we don’t realize just how much our words can impact others- Either hurting them or encouraging them. Proverbs show us that what we say reveals what’s inside our hearts, and it also shapes the kind of life we live. As followers of Jesus, we’re called to be careful with our words, choosing to speak in ways that build others up instead of tearing them down. When we use our words wisely, we can bring life and hope into situations that might seem hopeless.

This passage challenges us to think about how we communicate every day. It shows that anger and gossip can destroy- While words spoken in love and wisdom can bring healing and encouragement. Choosing life with our words isn’t just about avoiding harm; it’s about actively speaking words that uplift others and reflect God’s love. As we look at this Scripture, let’s ask God to help us be more mindful of what we say, so our words can truly make a positive difference. Today, we’ll learn how to speak in a way that brings life, hope, and grace to those around us.

Proverbs 10:12

Life-giving words…

1. Promote love and unity.

Words hold immense power to either foster love or sow discord among people. When we choose to speak words that promote love, patience, and kindness, we actively work to build unity within our relationships and communities. Such words encourage understanding, compassion, and reconciliation, creating an environment where people feel valued and cared for. Conversely, harsh or hateful words can lead to conflict, division, and the breakdown of relationships, causing pain and disunity that can be difficult to mend.

The Book of Proverbs highlights that love "covers over all wrongs" emphasizing the importance of patience, forgiveness, and seeking reconciliation through our speech. When we speak with humility and kindness, we reflect God's love and contribute to a atmosphere of peace and harmony. Our words can either tear down or uplift, and as followers of Christ, we are called to choose words that promote love, healing, and unity, thereby embodying the life-giving power of our speech.

Be intentional in using words that encourage and uplift others, recognizing that our speech has the power to either build bridges or create barriers. When conflicts arise, approach them with love and a desire to restore harmony, rather than deepen divisions, reflecting Christ’s love in every word we speak. Our speech should promote peace and unity among believers and within our communities, serving as a testament to God's love working through us. It’s worth asking ourselves- Are the words I speak promoting love and unity, or sowing discord? How can I become more mindful of my speech to better reflect God's love and bring healing to those around me?

Proverbs 10:13-14

Life-giving words…

2. Build wisdom and understanding.

Wisdom and discernment are clearly reflected in the way we use our words. When we speak with wisdom and understanding, we demonstrate insight and good judgment, recognizing the impact our words can have on others. Our speech has the power to build up, encourage, and bring life, or to tear down and cause harm. Therefore, choosing words carefully is a vital aspect of living wisely, as it affects our relationships and overall spiritual health.

Building wisdom involves intentional effort and thoughtful consideration. The wise "store up knowledge", meaning they actively seek understanding and are cautious about what they communicate. Recognizing the power of words, they aim to speak in ways that promote life and understanding. On the other hand, foolishness leads to destruction; the fool’s careless words invite negative consequences and ruin. Ultimately, the ability to discern when and how to speak reflects true wisdom and aligns with the biblical call to use our words to give life and foster understanding.

Be intentional in your speech by choosing words that impart wisdom and understanding, continually seeking knowledge so that your words reflect discernment and insight. Recognize the profound power of words to either bring life or cause harm and make a conscious effort to build others up rather than tear them down. Cultivating discernment enables you to speak in ways that promote life, growth, and understanding in those around you, aligning your words with God's desire for us to foster kindness, encouragement, and wisdom in every interaction.

Proverbs 10:15-21

Life-giving words…

3. Encourage and nourish others.

Our words hold incredible power to encourage, uplift, and nourish others both spiritually and emotionally. When we choose to speak life-giving words, we actively contribute to the growth, healing, and well-being of those around us. Just as a refuge provides safety and strength in times of need, our kind and wise words can serve as a source of comfort and reassurance for others. Righteousness and wisdom in our speech can guide others along the path of life, helping them to find hope and direction even in difficult circumstances.