Be Slow To Speak

JAMES 1:19 NKJV “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;”

There are several scriptures in the Bible admonishing us about the power of word and its effects on our lives. Words are spirit and have the power of life and death (John 6:63, Proverbs 18:21). Words are wired for power and affect the real man – the spirit. Words are crucial in maintaining perfect relationships. In fact the Bible likens a man who does not offend in words to a perfect man (James 3:2). But how many times have we said something and later regretted it? Too often we speak without thinking about the consequences of what we say! Words are powerful and should be used to accomplish a Godly purpose (Ephesians 4:29 “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.”)  Our words should be a gift to the hearer. What would happen if we consult with God before speaking? If we think about and pray about everything we say, before we say it? Surely, our lives will be different. 1 Peter 3:10 says “For He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit.”  Remember, we can always learn more by listening than by talking.  Proverbs 17:28 says “Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.”  We all need to ask that God help control our tongues – Psalm 41:3 “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips.” Let’s be slow to speak and be gracious with our words!