So, yeah, I love words…a lot. As a Christian and an English Major, I believe I’m called to use these lovely things in a way that pleases God. Naturally, I was curious to see what the Bible had to say about words. So, I did a little exploring.
OK, here it is, folks, my favorite Bible verse about the power of words: “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” (Proverbs 25:11 [NKJV]). First of all, the imagery here is just…mmm… Let’s just take a moment. Imagine yourself biting into a perfectly ripe peach, all juicy, so sweet… Isn’t the sensation rather similar to the perfect phrase, that sweet little sound byte? How about that wise bit of knowledge delivered by a mentor, the comforting words of a dear friend, or, in the context of this verse, the correct ruling of a judge?
However, most of what the Bible has to say about words is given in a very serious warning tone. Basically, it comes down to this. Think very carefully before you speak, write, or do anything with your words. So what? You might say, They’re just words. We use words all the time. In fact, most of us need to use them every day. Yet, words are dangerous things. Clearly, the Bible recognizes these little letters as a real kind of weapon, perhaps even more dangerous than an actual sword. Just look up James Chapter 3 to get an idea of what I mean. Words are sharp. They have teeth. Words can persuade, enforce, encourage, deter, play, expose, damage, destroy. The Bible itself is made up of these words. Look at the impact it has had and still does have.
Yet, the Bible also frequently brings up the power in a lack of words. There is power in silence. Knowing how and when to use our words goes hand-in-hand with the pursuit wisdom. It is a truly wise person who can determine when words are necessary and when they are not. Silence can be the wiser choice, oftentimes, but it can also be the easier choice too. If something needs to be said, say it. You’ll end up with regrets, fears, and even sin (in some cases) if you refuse to use your words.
So, be careful with those little letters. Remember that the pen you hold, the letters you type, or the words that you form on your tongue hold an enormous amount of power.
