Tongue: The Power of Words for Good or Evil

A small organ with enormous power — the tongue gives vent to the emotional feelings within through the words spoken. Though difficult to tame, brought under God's control it can bring great blessing instead of great damage.

The Power of the Tongue

Although only a small part of the body, the tongue has enormous power to do huge things, many of them very damaging, and it is difficult to tame or bring it under control (Prov 18:21; Jas 3:5-6,8). James describes the tongue as "a world of unrighteousness, set on fire by hell". Our tongues — the words we say with them in our pride and lack of self-control — are powerfully evil and destructive, for the way we use our tongues reveals our true nature.

Am I giving serious effort to controlling my tongue?

Words that Wound or Heal

"Reckless words pierce like a sword", while uplifting encouragement often comes via the same medium, and from the same person, depending on their emotional and spiritual condition (Prov 12:18, 15:4; Jas 3:9-10). When we are tired, frustrated or hurting, that is precisely when hurtful words flow most freely — reserves of patience and self-control are at their lowest, and the tongue acts on the inner turbulence before the heart has time to restrain it. We need to constantly ask for God's help to watch our speech and be self-controlled, for if we don't control our sharp tongue our religion is unprofitable or worthless — the person who has a slandering tongue cannot have a truly humble, gracious or godly heart (Ps 141:3; Jas 1:26, 3:2).

Do my words pierce like a sword or bring healing?

Accountable for Every Word

Jesus said "the good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him", and we will give account to God for every careless word spoken, being either condemned or acquitted (Mt 12:35-37). The Bible also says we are to do to others as we would have them do to us, and if we want to enjoy life we must cease to speak evil (Lk 6:31; 1 Pet 3:10).

One day, I will be held accountable for the careless words I have spoken

The effect of becoming a Christ follower is that our total person — every faculty of the body and mind — comes under His control: the outworking of our faith, evidenced through love, purifies the heart, subdues carnal lusts, and obeys God's commands. A true understanding of Christianity teaches us to do everything as in the presence of God.

Reflection and Application

Ask God each day to set a guard over my mouth.
Replace reckless words with words that encourage and build others up.
Pause before speaking when tired, angry or proud.
Speak today knowing I will give account for every word.