The tongue, though a small part of human body, can tremendously affect us or other people.  “From the fruit of their mouth, a person’s stomach is filled; with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied.  The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who live it will eat its fruit” (Proverbs 18:20-21).  The original context of the Proverbs is not written to us but from a father to a son, however its message applies to everyone of us as we face diverse human conditions.   Indeed, the tongue has either the power of life or the power of death, and there is nothing in between. Although, the tongue can express praises and thanksgiving, it has also the power to hurt, to harm, or to destroy.  For its good use, the tongue may be used for wise advice especially to those who are discouraged or hopeless. Sometimes, the tongue may be used to tell the truth.   Proverbs 27:6 says, “Faithful are the wounds of a friend.” Better to have a friend tell you the hard truth than have somebody try to cover up the hard truth that you need to hear.  On the contrary, we’re living in a world where man would rather hear flattery or sweet-coated compliments than hear the truth that would change one’s attitude or outlook in life.   Proverbs 26:28 says, “A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin.”  Another wrong use of it is that the tongue may be used for gossip. Proverbs 16:28 ^[1] says, “A perverse man stirs up dissension (or conflict), and a gossip separates close friends.”   Proverbs 17:9 ^[2] says, “He who covers over an offense promotes love.” That means that you don’t have to tell everything you know. You don’t have to make everything right. You can cover over some things so you can go on with life. “But whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.”  To avoid gossip, think of these questions before you speak:  Is it true?  Is it kind?  Is it necessary? Finally, let’s surrender our lips to the Giver of Life, that we may offer words that bless God and build up other people’s lives.  Have you ever wondered why human beings are crated with one mouth and two ears?  Let’s take admonition from Apostle James who said, .“Let every person be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger” (James 1:9).

Pastor Nilo Briones of Jesus Word of Life International Fellowship.  The Church celebrates worship and fellowship every Saturday at North East Bible Church congregated at 175 Whitefield Drive NE from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. If you need prayers, call Pastor Nilo at (587) 215-3377.  “God, mission, our mission:  to preach the gospel, feed the hungry, and share the love of Christ.”