Do you know that you can be a generous person simply by the words you choose to speak? You can give to someone without opening your pocketbook. Contrarily, you can also take away from someone by your speech. Flippant words can quickly rob a person of their joy and God-given dignity.
When I came across the above verse, I was struck by its resolve that my words can give grace to people I encounter. I don't think we consider the impact of our words, and all too often, our tongues go unchecked, used for slander and gossip. Scripture makes it clear that our words hold great weight in God's eyes, as it says in Matthew 12:36-37, "But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Yet, carefully chosen words, guided by the Spirit's wisdom, can encourage and strengthen a friend or stranger in ways that we may never even realize. So as the Body of Christ, let us not only give financially to those in need, but let us give gracious words to the poor in spirit, those in need of encouragement, comfort, and love. As parents, may we be careful to not tear down our children. May we be everready to listen, slow to speak, and may we excel in the grace of giving... through our everyday words.
Love this one, Kelly! Thanks for the reminder :) And love you too!
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