Words matter

“Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” (Prov. 29:20 ESV)

Today, someone made a comment on my social media feed about the President of the United States. Almost immediately, people began responding emotionally, and the discussion quickly spiraled into an ugly exchange. It was very negative and discouraging to witness. Unfortunately, this kind of hostile commenting happens regardless of who is in office—some responses are filled with anger and harsh, inflammatory words. I eventually hid the entire comment thread because it had devolved into such a negative diatribe.

Does God care about your words?

Yes, He does! The Bible is filled with verses that emphasize the importance of the words we speak. Before you’re tempted to post a harsh comment on social media or respond with anger, pause and reflect on what God says about your speech:

• Let your speech always be gracious

“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” (Col. 4:6 ESV)

• By your words you will be justified or condemned

“For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matt. 12:37 ESV)

• Put away all obscene talk from your mouth

“But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.” (Col. 3:8 ESV)

• Guard your mouth!

“Whoever guards his mouth preserves his life; he who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.” (Prov. 13:3 ESV)

Therefore

“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.” (James 1:19-20 NLT)