“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Proverbs 18:21
Our words SOW DEATH when we gossip about others to feel better about ourselves.
Gossip is one of the most common sins in Christian culture today. We pull people to agree with us and turn them against the other party. We want to be affirmed in our frustrations and feel validated, but we go about it the wrong way. James 4:11-12 speaks directly against that gossip saying, evil words against your brother and sister in Christ are not only hurting them but directly contradicting God’s role in the world. God is the judge and ultimate lawgiver, He is the one who will judge and set the consequences.
Our words SOW DEATH when we manipulate in order to get our way.
Words can be used very easily to manipulate people into doing what you want or making them feel guilty. Do you phrase your words in a way to cause your son, daughter, spouse, or friend to respond in a certain way? Ephesians 4:25 calls us to speak truth to one another and to put away falsehood because we have been, and are being, sanctified in Christ daily. Manipulating words cause people to be resentful and distant. Be honest with your emotions, desires, and needs, and be willing to talk through them with others and with God. He is not afraid of your emotions! He did create them after all!
Our words SOW DEATH when we discourage others or put them down.
Discouragement is endemic. Speaking negatively to one another and to yourself is another common way that words can sow death. Social media is a big proponent of comparison and negative talk that spurs self-hatred, indifference, and opposition. It is an area of life that we can compare with other people’s lives that seem so perfect, but it is not the reality. Negativity destroys our identity in Christ and our love for others. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” We are called to be thankful and to rejoice in all circumstances. This is extremely crucial for our walk with the Lord, so much so that Paul even says it is the will of God that we do so! Negativity steals joy from life and often times contradicts the commands from scripture and your identity in Him. There are good things that the Lord is doing in the lives of those whom He loves. Let us try and be diligent in noticing the good things and rejoicing even in uncertainty.
*We are a church located in Greenville, South Carolina. Our vision is to see God transform us into a community of grace passionately pursuing life and mission with Jesus.*
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