To Bless or to Curse

One of the characteristics of us as human beings is that of speech. With our ability to speak, do we recognize the power of our words? They can be uplifting, encouraging, or they can be offensive and hurt others. Do we even speak the truth all the time?

This Sunday, I begin a sermon series on "The Power of Our Words." My message this Sunday will focus on us being aware of what we say. Jesus said, "I tell you, on the day of judgement you will have to give an account for every careless word you utter." Matthew 12:36

There is an eternal significance to the words that we speak. Sometimes we say something that we didn't mean to say. Can we recall that word and take it back? That is why are words are important! That is why we must give attention to what we say. Once spoken, our words are in eternity.

In James 3:8-10 we read, "No one can tame the tongue—a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse those who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing." The tongue is a powerful instrument! Would that we would use it for good.

As you look over the words that you have spoken recently, have they been for blessing or for cursing? What might be helpful to control the tongue?