1A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. 2The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly – Proverbs 15:1-2
Words are everything. I don’t simply say this as a writer, but as a human who has both delivered and felt the blows of rash sentiment. The avenues we utilize to speak and how we do so, determines the weight of our character. The truth is, even the foolish are commended as wise when they learn to shut their mouth (Proverbs 17:28). There is a reason why we remember certain leaders by their speeches. They have found a way to tame and bend the english language in a way to promote their strengths.
The best leaders learn this valuable lesson first. The farther your reach, the more your voice carries and, fairly or not, the more your words are criticized. In other Proverbs it distinguishes our words as swords or bandaids (Proverbs 12:18). Essentially, what passes our lips either heal or destroy, unite or divide. This is true for our friend circles, for our families, and for our roles of leadership.
As Christ – followers, we will be known by what we say. We will be judged by the topics we present and the values we hold. As a reconciler, Jesus was known for His theology of reconciliation. Because this was His DNA, His words were seasoned with this glorious principle. While He definitely was divisive at times, it was for the right things. Equality. Grace. Humility. Faith. These were the things His contemporaries were divided on. Yet, much more were the matters He united others on. There were times to speak, and times to be silent. Jesus knew the balance and united a disenfranchised people to His Kingdom.
Watch your words today but watch also what you value.
Matt simon blog 