Key scripture – “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11).

Mark Twain, a unique wordsmith himself, once wrote: “The difference between the right word and almost the right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.”

Who has not been stabbed awake by the use of a particular word . . . or combination of words? Who has not found relief from a well-timed word spoken at the precise moment of need? Who has not been crushed beneath the weight of an ill-chosen word? And who has not gathered fresh courage because a word of hope penetrated the fog of self-doubt?

Pastor Chuck Swindol says that, “One set of words purifies our thoughts, transplanting us, at least for an instant, to the throne room of God; another set of words ignites lust, tempting us to visit the house of a harlot. Some words bring tears to our eyes in a matter of seconds; others bring fear that makes the hair on the back of our necks stand on end.”

The Bible says that: “The words of wise men are like goads, and masters of these collections are like well-driven nails; they are given by one Shepherd.” (Ecclesiastes 12:11).

J. B. Phillips correctly assessed the impact of such words when he wrote: “If words are to enter men’s hearts and bear fruit, they must be the right words shaped cunningly to pass men’s defenses and explode silently and effectually within their minds.”

The finest examples of that are the words and phrases of Jesus Christ. His choice of words. His placement of words. His economy of words. Even His eloquent turn of a phrase. The life-changing message of Jesus.

Being the ultimate wordsmith, Jesus wrapped up some of His most significant words in a brief statement we commonly call the Golden Rule: “Therefore, however you want people to treat you, so treat them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12). What a classic example of “apples of gold in settings of silver.”

We need to always remember that you can give life to people based on what you say to them or about them or you can kill them with your words. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” (Proverbs 18:21).

Are your words fitly spoken? Do you bless or curse and destroy people by what you say about them or say to them? Always think before you speak. Ask yourself, “Will what I am about to say build this person up or tear them down”. If it is the latter, don’t say it!

“Pleasing words are like honey. They are sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” (Proverbs 16:24).

Pray this – Our Precious Heavenly Father, I want the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart to always be pleasing to You and to build people up and not tear them down. Help me to do what You instruct us to do in Your Word, “Watch your talk! No bad words should be coming from your mouth. Say what is good. Your words should help others grow as Christians. Do not make God’s Holy Spirit have sorrow for the way you live. The Holy Spirit has put a mark on you for the day you will be set free. Put out of your life all these things: bad feelings about other people, anger, temper, loud talk, bad talk which hurts other people, and bad feelings which hurt other people.” (Ephesians 4:29-31 NLV). Teach me how to always give a gentle answer and to speak words of kindness. I want my words to please and heal others and not harm them. I give my words, my mouth, my tongue and my thoughts to the Holy Spirit. I put them all under His control so that they will all be pleasing to You. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.