Notes:

Do you measurably speak, Conversely, how foolish are you?

Words may tear people down, injure them, and leave them with dreadful wounds. Some of us are still nursing the scars of others’ harsh remarks. “Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit,” the Bible says. Proverbs 18:21.

The powerful and contrasting uses of the tongue are concisely described in James 3:1-12. Paul offers an observation about the need for precise speech and language in communicating in 1 Corinthians 14:7-11: 

Even in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the pipe or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes?  Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle? So, it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air. Undoubtedly there are all sorts of languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning.  If then I do not grasp the meaning of what someone is saying, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and the speaker is a foreigner to me. 

There are numerous languages in the world, and each one has its own significance.  If I don’t understand the language, I will be to the one who speaks a barbarian, and the one who speaks will be a barbarian to me.

Paul has given us a crash course in communication theory.  If your message is not clearly communicated or understood by the recipient, there will be miscommunication and confusion. For me to convey :

1) I must convert the thoughts into a language.

 2) I must transmit the message clearly and concisely. 

3) You must accept and receive this message. 

4) You must decode the message. In every step, there is a risk of miscommunication.

Speech-related principles in the Bible.

A. Speech can be constructive and productive.

• Proverbs 10:11:
•  Proverbs 10:21
•  Proverbs 12:14
• Proverbs 16:13
• Proverbs 17:10
• Proverbs 20:15 
• 1 Thessalonians 2:5-7 
• 1 Cor 2:13
•  1 Cor 14:24

B. Speech can be destructive

• Proverbs 10:14; 11:9; 11:11; 12:13; 14:23; 16:27; 16:28; 20:20; 21:6 
• James 3:1-12 b. 1 Tim 5:13 

C. Speech should be humble

• Proverbs10:8; 10:19; 11:13; 12:16; 12:23; 13:3; 14:3; 14:33; 18:2; 18:7; 17:14; 18:17; 18:19; 25:8-10; 25:14; 27:2; 29:20 2. 21:23
• James 1:19, 26, Matt 12:36-37, Titus 1:10-13

D. Our speech should be honest.

• Proverbs 1. 12:17; 12:19; 12:22; 14:5; 27:5; 28:13
• Matt 5:33-37, Eph 4:24-25 

E. Our speech should be moral and compassionate. 

• Proverbs 1. 12:17; 12:18; 15:1; 15:2; 15:4; 15:7; 16:24; 22:11; 25:15 2. 
• 1 Pet 3:8-10, James 4:11, 1 Pet 3:15, Titus 2:1-8

F. Our words can expose our intentions/heart.

• Proverbs 10:20; 12:23; 16:23 
• Luke 6:41-45 

G. Our speech can hide our heart/intentions.

• Proverbs 10:18; 20:6; 26:24-26
• Matt 5:8

H. It is necessary to assess the appropriateness of our words.

• Proverbs 12:23; 15:23; 15:28; 16:30; 17:10; 17:28; 18:21; 25:11; 26:4-5; 27:14; 28:23 & 29:5 
• James 4:13-16, Col 4:6 ,1 Tim 6:3-5,1 John 3:18

I. It’s preferable to avoid saying anything stupid.

• Proverbs 14:7; 16:32; 17:4; 18:8; 26:7, 9; 
• 2 Tim 2:14

J. When it comes to finding friends, speaking can be a valuable tool.

Proverbs 14:7; 17:9; 20:19; 22:10; 23:9 

1 Cor 5:11 

Constructive use of our words:

A. Use assertive language sparingly.

Matthew 5:44 says.

B. Avoid gossiping.

“Avoid revealing secrets; someone with a loudmouth is a persistent gossip.” 20:19 in Proverbs (HCSB)

“A divisive guy sows’ discord, and gossip divides friends.” 16:28 (Proverbs) (HCSB)

C. Avoid using profanity or negative language.

 Colossians 3:8-10, Ephesians 5:4 ESV

D. Our speech should be honest and accurate.

 Matt 5:37.

 E. Use motivational/inspiring language:

Ephesians 4: 29.

Changing the way, we speak

The process of changing one’s speech begins with a change from within us. “What comes out of our mouths comes from the heart, and this defiles a man,” Matthew (15:18). 

Changing our hearts is a good place to start. We must consider our options before we speak. The Bible teaches, “My dearly loved brothers, understand this: everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not accomplish God’s righteousness.” James 1:19-20

According to the book of James, our speech can be uncontrollable and contradictory, because it can convey both blessings and curses.  Several verses in the book of Proverbs relate to the power of our words.

Before we speak, we must consider our options. The Bible teaches, “My dearly loved brothers, understand this: everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not accomplish God’s righteousness.” James 1:19-20

Remember that using your tongue without using your thinking is a recipe for disaster. Take a breather before speaking. Reflect and ask yourself the following questions:

Is this correct?

Is it of any use to you?

Is it inspiring or motivational?

 Is this required to do?

Is it considerate or empathetic?

If you’re ready to say something that doesn’t pass this easy test, don’t say it. Consider what you’re saying before you say it. 

Consider taking advantage of God’s help.  Who can control the human tongue? Jehovah is capable. “Therefore, if someone is in Christ, there is a new creation; old things have gone away, and new things have come,” Paul informed us. 5:17 in 2 Corinthians (HCSB)

Elohim can empower and drive everybody to change. Most importantly, our Savior can provide us with the ability to change. “I can accomplish anything through Him who strengthens me,” Paul said. Philippians 4:13.

Countless lives have transformed because of the almighty. He is a change agent.   Allow God to complete His mission in your life.