“A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart… What you say flows from what is in your heart.” Luke 6:45
Lord Jesus, this seems like a perfect Saturday, and weekend, for remembering the connection between the treasury of our hearts and the stewardship of our words. The more we treasure, adore, and fellowship with you, Jesus… well, nothing impacts our whole life more—not just our words.
“The tongue has the power of life and death.” Prov. 18:21
How encouraging and sobering: We’re capable of bringing resurrection and destruction, eternal life and deadly harm, simply by what we say to each other. Jesus, may we become fluent in grace-speak, even with our body-language. Give us “a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary” (Isa. 50:4).
“Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Eph. 4:29
May we never get used to hurting people with our words. May we never try to justify our contempt, shaming and tart words. There’s always a redemptive way to express our hurt, disappointments, and frustrations.
“Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” Prov.16:24.
Jesus, no words are more gracious and heart-healing than the ones you constantly speak to us in the Gospel. We are forgiven and loved, treasured and yours. May the stream of our words flow from the bottomless reservoir of your grace. So very Amen we pray, in your tender and triumphant name.