THE POWER OF SPEECH

At the beginning we find God speaking the heavens and the earth into existence (Gen. 1:1ff). It is evident that words have power and great power at that. How we use our speech is of utmost importance. Our words should be pure and designed to build up the listener (Eph. 4:29). Our words should always be with grace, seasoned with salt (Col. 4:6). Why is it so important what we say? Consider the fact that our words will either justify or condemn us on the day of judgment (Mt. 12:36-37). For this reason alone words hold great power!

We should be responsible in the words we select to say at any given time. There is no better word to speak than that of truth. Jesus always told the truth and was the very embodiment of truth (Jn. 14:6; cf. Jn. 1:14, 17, 8:45-46). There is no success in fighting against the truth (2 Cor. 13:8). Furthermore, there is nothing false or deceptive in truth (1 Jn. 2:21). This should provide us with great confidence in God’s Word which is truth (Jn. 17:17).

The father of lies, Satan, never once spoke the truth (Jn. 8:44). He was active in the garden of Eden in deceiving Eve which he did (Gen. 3:1-6; cf. 2 Cor. 11:3). His agents are still active in deceiving people with false words (2 Cor. 11:13-15). Is it not interesting that God and Satan employ words but for entirely different purposes? The same can be said about you and I depending on what words we use! Let us be those that use acceptable words (Ecc. 12:10), that is words of truth, that will benefit the listener.

"And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!’" (Rm. 10:15 NKJV)

Trent Thrasher