Blessing of Speech

As followers of Christ,  Christians are told exhibit a high standard of conduct and look to God’s word to be that standard.  As Christians,  our speech is no exception.  The Bible clearly tells us that we are to be careful what we say, and how and when we say certain things. The words we say can do good to so many, but the very same tongue can utter words of bitterness and hatred and cause much harm.

Our tongues can be used to spread the gospel of Christ, to pray for those in need, to offer words of encouragement  to someone who may be struggling,  to edify one another, to sing praises unto God, to give godly instruction to our families and friends, and the list of good things we can do through our speech goes on and on. The point being that God blessed us with an instrument that can be used to honor and glorify Him when we use it as we should. I Pet. 4:11 says, “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God.” If we proclaim to be followers of Christ then our speech should exemplify it. Titus 2:7-8 says, “in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence,  incorruptability, (8) sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.” Again, our speech is to be sound and used in such a manner that would glorify God in what we say and how we say it. Our speech should not be able to be condemned by others. Those in the world who hear us speak should notice a difference in our words. We must be careful that we never bring shame or reproach to the Christian name that we bear and He who made it possible to bear it. Vulgar, abusive, obscene, and harmful language is the language of the world and God’s people must avoid using the same speech as the world does if we want to be pleasing unto God.  The ability to speak is a blessing from God and should be used in service to Him and express to others the joy and peace that comes from faithfully obeying the gospel.

James chapter 3:3-5 says, “Indeed we put bits in horses mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body.  (4) Look also at ships; although they are so large and driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. (5) Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles!” As we grow and mature as Christians, our ability to bridle our tongues should become stronger and stronger.  Learning to think before we speak, realizing the effects our words may have on others is so important if we hope to conduct ourselves as God wants us to.  James 3:2 says it this way, “For we all stumbled in may things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body.”

- Garrett Alsip