Does It Matter What I Say?

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue..." (Proverbs 18:21)

Do you believe this? It is certainly true in God's case. He spoke and there was life.

"Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light." (Gen.1:3) God spoke and creation began.

If I believe I am created in the image of God, "Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness..." (Gen.1:26) do I also believe when I speak, creative power is at work?

Jesus spoke to the fig tree and it withered. By his word, Jesus brought death to the tree. His disciples were astonished and basically asked him how this was possible.

Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done."( Mt. 21:21)

So my question is, do you believe this power to create life or bring death resides only in God? Is Jesus the only one able to actually produce life and death with his words?

I was sitting with a friend, watching our children play together.  Her two daughters began bickering. As she intervened, she grabbed one by the arm saying, "you are such a brat." I cringed, wondering what her words would produce, certainly not life.

I've noticed lately I have become careless with my words. While driving, I mutter "what an idiot," as I pass another driver talking on his cell phone and not paying attention. I jokingly refer to one of my children as a "punk kid."

" And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak." (Mt. 12:36)

Ouch! I need to pay closer attention to the words I speak.

He's Still On The Throne

On the way to church this morning, I was struggling. I was angry. Angry at someone who was causing great distress to one very dear to me. God is so good. He reminded me that He is still on the throne.

Yes! A King who sits on the throne. He's never lost His authority. It doesn't matter what happens around me. He created all and is ruler of all. I find comfort in this fact.

I had allowed myself to get caught up in emotion. Why? Just because someone has a problem in life and attacks another? Like this doesn't happen every day? Why should I allow my faith to be moved and sink to letting my emotions rule?

I shouldn't. The one attacking is no doubt hurt and reeling like a wounded animal. Or possibly, this one has learned to be mean. I can pray for her as well as the one attacked.

"Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you." Luke 6:27-28