Submitted by Pastor Mike Christian, Tarkio Assembly of God

“Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” (Psalm 141:3)

“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)

You have power in your tongue! The words you and I speak each day have the ability to build up or tear down. This is why we must watch what we say at all times.

Jesus said, “But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:36-37)

Our words will be our witness on Judgment Day. I used to think of this verse negatively. I used to say to myself, “You better watch what you say; your words will condemn you.” But then I realized my idle words would justify me as well as condemn me. I began to recall the dozens of offhand comments I made during the day that really show I love God and care about His work.

Today, I encourage you – watch what you say! Speak positive, uplifting words. Say things that edify and lift up those who are listening to you. Your words can be a source of encouragement for many who are carrying a heavy burden in their heart or life. Take time to tell someone how much you appreciate them for what they do each day. Take a moment to thank the police officer for performing his/her duties each and every day in the community. Thank the clerk at the grocery store for smiling at you while you stand in the checkout line. Thank the teachers for committing themselves to help your/our children gain the education they need in order to lead productive lives in the community. Thank the business owners in the community for their commitment to the community and for the products they provide. The list goes on and on.

Begin to say “good things” to everyone you come into contact with each day. Soon, you’ll begin to see smiles on the faces of those you meet, whether it be on the street, in the post office, at the grocery store, at the hospital or even in the church. It is our privilege, and responsibility (especially as Christians), to lift one another up in the Lord. How much brighter the day is when our words are uplifting and encouraging to those around us.

The Word of God says, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Colossians 4:6) May the Lord Bless you abundantly with a heart that is filled with love, and a tongue that spreads that love with words that encourage and uplift the hearts and souls of those to whom you speak. May the Glory of the Lord shine upon you and may His Blessings fill your life in such abundance that they are poured out on all who cross your path.

Have a wonderful day!