Proverbs 15:4 (NKJV)

A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.

I was struck by the picture in Proverbs 15:4. A wholesome, soothing, gentle tongue is compared to a tree of life. One commentary described it this way: "a properly nourished tree grows and provides shade and refreshment for all who seek its shelter."

What a contrast to words that are reckless, deceitful, or harsh. Proverbs says they can break or crush the spirit. Most of us have experienced the sting of careless words, but hopefully we have also been strengthened by words that brought comfort, wisdom, and healing at just the right time.

We probably all would like to get better with our words (even the ones we think). The good news is that we can learn to speak differently as we follow the example of Jesus.

Isaiah describes Him as One Who listened to His Father morning by morning so that He would know “the word that sustains the weary.”

As we receive His wisdom, comfort, and instruction, we learn to give the same away. May our words become a tree of life, offering shade, refreshment, healing, and hope to those around us.

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