The Power of Words

We all understand the power of words.  The Bible is clear that words are important.  Death and life are in the power of the tongue (Prov. 18:21).  A lying tongue is an abomination to the Lord. But truthful lips are established forever (Prov. 6:17, 12:19).  James would suggest to us that if a person can control what he or she says, then the person can control the whole self (James 3:2).  Although we understand the importance of words, our words often fall short of God’s expectations.  

As you strive to look more like Christ every day, ask yourself, “Can I see Christ in my talk.”  The question is not, “Can others see Christ in my talk?”   We can fool others.  But we each know how we really talk.  We know the things we say when others aren’t listening.    
Can I see Christ in my talk?  In order to answer the question, it is important to understand how Christ talked.  We know that Ephesians 4:29 says let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth.  Many people think that means as long as there is no profanity coming out of their mouths, then they are good.  But it takes more than the absence of unwholesome language to see Christ in our talk.  Over the next few weeks we will reflect on how Christ talked.    

​For starters, Christ spoke to instruct.  Often his teaching would come in the form of parables.  Jesus did not let an opportunity for instruction pass Him by.  Like Jesus, take advantage of the opportunities for instruction that life presents to you.  As he walked, he taught.  As he saw, he taught.  As he experienced life with the disciples he taught. 
When we see Christ in our talk, our words are instructive and informative.  Our talk should be more substantive than the weather and the latest Hollywood gossip.  Others should learn of God from what we say.  If we don’t speak of God, those who need God may not learn of Him.