Message Library

Control Our Words

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My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.

James 1:19

Words can be very powerful, they can encourage and they can hurt. Have you ever spoken words that you wish you can take back, words you wish that were never spoken?  Ephesians 4:29 states: “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”  If we can adopt the attitude of using our words to add value to the person’s life, how would that impact the person and how would it make us feel?  I have found that it is personally rewarding to uplift and encourage people.

How can we control our words, so we can exhibit Christ-like behavior. First, listen to the person, listen to the Holy Spirit, and respond with words that show you care about the person. If a person says something that makes us angry, it essential that we are quick to listen and slow to speak and seek Godly wisdom, otherwise we may respond with angry words. If we respond with defensive behavior we will most likely create an argument, and end up speaking angry hurtful words.

For many years before I gave my life to the Lord, I responded defensively with angry words, especially to those closest to me. Today with my identity in Christ, and with training to control my anger, I desire and seek to respond with Godly wisdom. James 1:19, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” What a blessing to be in control of my words through the Spirit. It has greatly helped me in all my relationships and given me confidence when confronted by difficult people.

When we speak to people it is important to understand how they perceive what we have said. Sometimes our good intentions can be perceived as not so good, based on our wording or our tone of voice.  If the person does not correctly perceive what you meant, it’s not their fault. It is the speaker’s responsibility to make sure the information is received as intended.

Today be quick to listen and slow to speak, choosing your words carefully and exhibit Godly wisdom.  It will help you in all your relationships, especially in your immediate family. Choose to use your words wisely to encourage, and reap the contentment and satisfaction of uplifting others.

Prayer: Lord, guide me through the Spirit today, so I can speak words in your wisdom. Help me to be quick to listen and slow to speak, seeking your guidance in whatever I say. Keep me from speaking angry hurtful words driven by emotional habits, but instead help me to speak words that will add value to the person’s life.  In Jesus name I pray, Amen