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Sermon Notes
Using Wise Words
Proverbs 18:21
Introduction
- Words carry the power of life and death. They can bring great healing and great harm.
- We live in a wordy-world. Because of technology, our words are more visible than ever, and last longer.
- We will be held accountable for our words. (Mt 12:36)
Death words
Pr 12:18 Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
- Death words marginalize, they diminish others
- Death words can happen within us.
- Death words are LIES.
God’s words
- The Gospel message: death words do not need to have the LAST word over us.
- Jesus’ words over us: life, hope, for our good.
- To the extent you embrace His words over you, is the degree that you will be freed from the death words spoken over you.
How to use your words wisely
- Talk less, listen more
Wise men speak because they have something to say. Fools speak because they have to say something. – Plato
Pr. 10:19 (NLT) Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.
- When you are angry, wait to speak
Pr. 29:11 (NIRV) A foolish person lets his anger run wild. But a wise person keeps himself under control.
- Some anger is good, some anger corrodes our soul.
- Don’t suppress it, but rather discern it.
- Be willing to tell the truth (even if the cost is high)
Pr. 14:25 (NIV) A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is deceitful.
- The tension of truth-telling: on one hand is the voice that is suppressed. While others speak without filters, or without getting all the facts
Col 4:6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
- Salt= speech that has an effect
- There are times when we are called to be silent, and there are times when we need to speak out. Wisdom is knowing the difference and acting.
- Choosing the right time to speak
Pr. 15:23 A person finds joy in giving an apt reply— and how good is a timely word!
- Am I more interested in getting my point across than asking God – should I say this at this moment?
Reflection
Where do I need wisdom in using my words?
Pr. 25:11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver (it has value)
– Wise words can change everything