This Proverb says, “There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
I remember when I was a child that children would sometimes say mean things to each other. The child who might have been offended would sometimes respond with this poem: “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never harm me.” However, the truth of the matter is that words do cause harm. In fact, they can cause great harm that may last a lifetime.
The Bible says that we should choose our words carefully when we speak to other people. We should not respond hastily or rashly with words that may cause damage. Rather, we should speak so as to encourage or edify others. A wise person is one who will respond in this manner.
A wise person is one who believes in God and lives according to God’s Word. Such a person is aware of God’s guidance in this matter. Accordingly, a wise person will be thoughtful in choosing his or her words.
However, a person who does not believe in God or follow God’s Word will not be so careful in choosing their own words. Their words will likely cause damage, much like the thrusts of a sword causes damage.
The Bible says that God will hold us accountable for the words we have spoken to others. We should keep that in mind when we may be tempted to respond in anger to another person. That will motivate us to use well-chosen words in our response.
