May 26

Words are important. Jesus said that God would judge us what we have said (Mt. 12:37).

Why is what we say so important to God? God created the universe simply by speaking forth a word (Ps. 33:6). Being made in the image of God, when we speak forth words, we also create. We do not have the power that God alone has to create out of nothing, but our words nonetheless do have power to create new things out of things that already exist.

When we speak harsh words of criticism to a child, for instance, we can create a spirit of failure or rejection in that child. Contrariwise, words of encouragement can lift that child up and mold him or her in a better way. Words have power, and like fire, they can either kill or refine and make better.

Words issue forth from their source, which is the spirit in a person. Jesus said that a good person will speak good words from the heart, and an evil person will likewise speak according to what is in him (Luke 6:43-45).

What do your words reveal about the condition of your heart?

Scripture for today: Luke 6:43-45; Prov. 4:23
Thought for today: My words reveal my heart.
Prayer for today: Guard my heart, O Lord, so that my lips will reveal you there.

MAY 26