The Words of Your Mouth

“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14)

Words Are Important

The old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me,” is simply not true. Words do hurt and can cause lasting damage. I have spoken words in haste or in anger and immediately wished I could take them back—but I couldn’t. The harm had already been done.

Speaking in haste is like squeezing toothpaste from a tube—it comes out quickly and easily, but you can never put it back in. The Bible warns us that rash words can pierce like a sword, while wise words bring healing:

Rash words are like sword thrusts

“There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” (Proverbs 12:18 ESV)

Our words don’t just wound—they also have the power to bring life or death:

Death and life are in the power of the tongue

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” (Proverbs 18:21 ESV)

When emotions run high, a gentle response can change the entire outcome of a conversation:

A soft answer turns away wrath

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1 ESV)

And when we choose kindness, our words can refresh and strengthen the soul:

Gracious words bring health

“Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” (Proverbs 16:24 ESV)

Therefore

Once words leave our mouths, like toothpaste from a tube, they can’t be taken back. That’s why Scripture urges us to think before we speak, letting the Holy Spirit guide our tone and timing. As followers of Christ, our goal is to speak in a way that builds up, heals wounds, and points others toward Him—leaving behind a blessing instead of regret.

“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.” (Ephesians 4:29 ESV)