A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly. .. The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. (Proverbs 15:1-2, 4)
The first couple of verses in Proverbs chapter 15 bring me back to the theme of controlling our speech, but this time with a positive bent. The impact of someone who knows how to use their words wisely produces peace, offers up timely knowledge and brings healing.
My thoughts went to the book of James: Take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go (James 3:4). James compares the tongue to a ship’s rudder or a bit that controls a horse; small things that can give positive direction to large objects or animals.
This made me think of some of the small words or phrases that I can use to build up the people around me. How long does it take for me to mention to my kids that I’m proud of an action they’ve done or accomplishment? One kind comment goes a long way in making peace in the home. Thanking people for their service or generosity prepares the heart for a growing relationship. Of all the people who should know how to encourage people with their words, Christians should be on the forefront.
Proverbs 15:22 speaks of this when it says: A man finds joy in giving an apt reply -- how good is a timely word!
Asking God to fill us with his Spirit implies self-control, not only in a negative sense, but also the positive. This day I want to ask God to make me aware of situations where I can bring a word of hope or encouragement, and then act upon the opportunity with a word aptly spoken. Lord, help me to be a person who brings that timely word to people who need hope.
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