Choosing Words That Bring Healing
A sentence can leave someone more wounded or help a conversation begin to mend. Proverbs asks us to take that difference seriously when we choose what to say.
the tongue of the wise brings healing.
(Proverbs 12:18, NIV, excerpt)
The proverb contrasts reckless speech with words shaped by wisdom. The surrounding sayings commend truthful testimony, careful judgment, and the promotion of peace. Its image of healing describes the restorative good wise speech can bring into human relationships.
Choose words that help the person before you
Begin with what is true and useful. If you are offering encouragement, make it specific enough to be meaningful rather than reaching for a broad promise.
If something needs correcting, speak about the matter clearly and respectfully. Ask a question when you need more understanding.
Consider whether an apology, a word of thanks, or an acknowledgment of another person’s effort is overdue. Give that sentence the attention it deserves.
Bring your words before Jesus in prayer. Ask Him to shape the heart beneath them, so that kindness and truth belong together. One careful conversation can be a place to practice the love we are learning from Him.
A prayer
Jesus, help me use words with wisdom. Turn me from reckless speech and teach me truthful care. Show me where an apology, a kind acknowledgment, or a patient question could help a relationship today. Amen.
Keep reading: Psalm 19: Bringing Your Words Before God · When an Apology Needs Patient Follow-Through.
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Careful words can help a conversation become a place of repair.
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