The Dangers of the Tongue

PEOPLE tend to be known by what they say. Words may strike fear in others, they may reveal the speakers to be foolish, or they may be a source of help or comfort to other people.

In a passage that probably pertains to the coming Messiah, Isaiah said the Lord’s Anointed would “know how to speak” by receiving instruction from God (Isaiah 50:4). As a result of this divine tutelage, He would be able to speak appropriately to the weary. How much more do the rest of us need help in knowing what to say, given our sinful condition. Scripture repeatedly warns us about the power and danger of our words. As Scripture frequently shows, they can:

• cut like a sword (Psalms 57:4; 64:3);
• be as dangerous and poisonous as a snake (Psalm 140:3);
• convey lies with the impact of a bow (Jeremiah 9:3);
• strike down other people like an arrow (Jeremiah 9:8); and
• curse and demean others (Hosea 7:16).

What is the impact of your words on other people? Does what you say build others up or tear them down?

Courtesy of Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Commentary
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, ESV © 2016 by Crossway Bibles.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.