Power tools like drills, saws, and sanders are run off a power source. These tools are very useful and beneficial if they are used correctly for their intended purpose. So too is the tongue. When empowered by the Holy Spirit it is useful and beneficial.
When a tool is not plugged into its power source it is pointless and loses its value. When its used incorrectly, it is harmful to the user and the object it is being used on. The same holds true for the tongue. Proverbs 12:18 says, “there is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts.” James tells us “the tongue is like a fire, a world of unrighteousness.” When we act out in our flesh and do not reign in our tongue then we are destructive.
If I took a power saw and used it to hammer a nail in the wall, the wall would be damaged and the saw blade would get destroyed. If I didn’t plug in the saw and proceeded to cut up logs my efforts would be fruitless. It would be better not to use this tool at all. “Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; even when he closes his lips, he is considered wise.” Proverbs 17:28.
Conversely, a power tool when plugged into a power source helps the user and doesn’t harm the object it is being using on. The tool becomes efficient and effective. The power tool helps to build the object. Being educated and instructed on its use is essential to understanding how it was created to be used. So too our tongue. We are instructed in God’s Word to only use our mouths when it is good “to build up or give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29. When we are empowered by the Holy Spirit our “tongue is like choice silver.” Proverbs 10:20.
Our tongue is either a tool for construction or a weapon of destruction. According to the scripture, “death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Proverbs 18:21.
So, here are some questions for you: Have you read the instruction manual (the Bible) to understand how to use your tongue correctly? Are you mindful of what you say? Are you “slow to speak?” James 1:19.
The Word of God tells us, in Matt. 12:36, “on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.”
Let me leave you with this final question: How will you use your tongue?
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