“From the fruit of their lips people enjoy good things, but the unfaithful have an appetite for violence.”

I hesitate to share another passage about the power of words, especially right after doing so yesterday. However, whether it’s the news or just the world around me, I can’t seem to get my mind off this truth: our words have consequences. I used to wonder—and even had lengthy discussions with others—about which of the five senses I would most hate to live without. Sight usually won out. Taste, smell, and touch were often the first to go in those deep philosophical conversations. It always seemed to come down to a choice between sight and hearing. After coming to Christ and realizing the miracle of the Creator I was blessed to be, that whole exercise made me even more grateful. What an amazing gift all of our senses are. A lot of my ministry is practiced through speaking. If that weren’t the case, I’ve often thought that not speaking might be a gift to others. Speaking wisely is certainly a gift to the hearers. Rather than giving up this beautiful gift, using it to bless and lift others up is the best option. Because of the volume and regularity of hurtful and negative messages in the world, it doesn’t take much to shine light into that dark space—a few kind words can make all the difference. Saying something as simple as “Jesus loves you and has a spectacular plan for your life” might just be the best thing someone hears all day. So today, just like yesterday, continue to speak life. #BeTheEdge

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)