Lashing Lips

Ephesians 4:29 Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God's favor) to those who hear it. (AMP)

Our words are tools that can either build up or tear down. It is hard to imagine that harsh words can be similar to wrecking balls, but that is exactly how we should view them. It was the power of God that allowed the shouts of the Israelites to bring down the walls of Jericho, but the imagery of this spectacle is still intriguing. Except for Rahab, hardly anyone in Jericho could have imagined that by trumpets and shouts the walls would be destroyed. Yet, this is what happened and you could say that words wrecked the wall.

It has often been phrased, “Think before you speak.” Well, perhaps we should be thinking of the aftermath of Israel's cries and realize that our own words, spoken in anger, cynicism, and haste, can cause lasting damage. The word sarcasm comes from the Greek term σαρκασμός (sarkasmós) which gives the imagery of flesh literally being torn off! In an instant we can create our own cruel whip for peoples backs, when we scornfully lash out at others. We need to be reminded of what Jesus said in Matthew 12:37, “For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” The common phrase “silence is golden” is so true. Indeed, “Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles (Proverbs 21:23).” It is not that we should be afraid to talk at all, but that we should be observant over the timing of, manner of, and reason for our words (Proverbs 15:1, 23).

Paul once wrote to Titus, “In all things see that you are an example of good works; holy in your teaching, serious in behaviour, Saying true and right words, against which no protest may be made, so that he who is not on our side may be put to shame, unable to say any evil of us (Titus 2:7-8 / BBE).” More than anything, we must realize that a holy walk coupled with true and right words are imperative in the Christian life. To have wisdom show forth in our walk and talk shines brightly in this world filled with cursing, complaining, and cynicism. Oh God, may our words be a well of life to barren hearts in need of Your love (Proverbs 10:11)!