Day 3: The Power of Words
Text: Proverbs 18:21 – “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
Words are among the most powerful forces ever given to mankind. They have the ability to shape destinies, heal wounds, inspire hope, or destroy relationships. With just a few words, nations have gone to war, families have been restored, and hearts have been broken or mended. Solomon, in his timeless wisdom, declares that “death and life are in the power of the tongue.” This verse reveals a sobering truth — our words are not neutral. They carry within them the power to produce either blessing or harm.
From the very beginning of creation, God demonstrated the power of words. He spoke, and the universe came into existence: “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” (Genesis 1:3). God’s words carried authority, life, and purpose. Being made in His image, we too possess the ability to use words that create — not worlds, but atmospheres. With our words, we can create peace in our homes, joy in our relationships, and faith in our communities. The same tongue, however, can also unleash destruction, bitterness, and pain. That is why the Bible warns us to be slow to speak and quick to listen (James 1:19 ).
Our speech reflects the condition of our hearts. Jesus said, “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” (Matthew 12:34 ). If our hearts are full of anger, pride, or envy, our words will reveal it. But if our hearts are filled with God’s love, peace, and humility, our speech will build others up. The mouth simply exposes what already lives within. Therefore, before we can truly control our tongues, we must allow God to cleanse and renew our hearts.
The tongue, though small, is immensely powerful. James compares it to a spark that can set an entire forest ablaze (James 3:5–6). A single careless statement can ruin a reputation or end a friendship. On the other hand, a single kind word can bring comfort to a grieving soul or courage to someone ready to give up. Our daily conversations carry more spiritual weight than we realize. Every word we speak is either planting life or sowing death — and in time, we will eat the fruit of our speech.
Speaking life means using words to uplift rather than tear down. It means choosing kindness over criticism, truth over gossip, encouragement over complaint. It also means speaking faith instead of fear. Many people live defeated lives because they constantly speak negatively about themselves and their situations. They say, “I can’t make it,” “Things will never change,” or “I’m not good enough.” Such words shape their mindset and become self-fulfilling prophecies. Proverbs 6:2 says, “You are snared by the words of your mouth.” The more we declare defeat, the more we walk in it. But when we speak God’s promises — “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13 ) — we align ourselves with His truth and open the door to His power.
The way we speak to others matters just as much. Proverbs 15:1 teaches that “a soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Our words can either calm a storm or make it worse. How many relationships have suffered simply because of words spoken in haste or pride? Learning to control the tongue requires humility and wisdom. Sometimes, silence is the best answer. Proverbs 17:27 reminds us, “He who has knowledge spares his words, and a man of understanding is of a calm spirit.” A wise person knows when to speak and when to stay silent.
To speak life, we must let the Holy Spirit guide our words. Colossians 4:6 says, “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt.” Grace-filled speech brings healing and light into dark situations. When we speak truth with love, we reflect God’s nature and influence others for good. Our tongues were never meant for cursing, gossip, or deceit — they were designed to bless, encourage, and testify of God’s goodness.
Every day, we face countless opportunities to choose between life and death with our words. The person who constantly complains, criticizes, and curses will eat the bitter fruit of negativity. But the one who speaks faith, gratitude, and love will taste the sweetness of life. The principle is simple: we harvest what we say.
In conclusion, the power of words is not a poetic idea; it is a spiritual reality. Words can destroy what took years to build or heal what was broken beyond repair. Our tongues are small but mighty instruments, capable of changing the atmosphere of our lives. Let us, therefore, use them wisely — to speak truth, to bless others, and to glorify God. If we fill our hearts with His Word, our lips will speak life. And when life flows from our speech, it will flow into every part of our existence.