Verse of the Day:
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)
Devotion:
Words are powerful. With just a few of them, we can lift someone’s spirit—or crush it. We can stir faith—or spark fear. Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 18:21 that our words carry the power of life and death. That’s no small responsibility.
Every day, we’re given countless opportunities to speak life—over our situations, over others, and even over ourselves. But too often, our words drift into complaining, criticizing, or comparing. We don’t realize that what we say has the potential to either build up or break down what God is doing.
Think about God’s nature—He spoke the world into existence. Jesus healed with a word. And the Holy Spirit still speaks truth into our hearts. If we are made in His image, then our words should reflect His heart. That means choosing to speak hope when things look hopeless. Encouragement when others feel unseen. Truth when lies try to take root.
And don’t forget about how you speak to yourself. You’re listening—even when no one else is. Are your words lining up with what God says about you? Or are you letting negativity and fear shape your self-talk?
Today, make the choice to speak life. Not just when it’s easy, but especially when it’s hard. Let your words reflect the grace and truth of the One who gave them to you.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for reminding me of the power that rests in my tongue. Forgive me for the times I’ve used words to hurt, criticize, or speak fear. Help me to speak with intention—words that heal, encourage, restore, and uplift. Let my speech reflect Your heart and bring life to those around me, including myself. Teach me to speak blessings over my day, over my relationships, and over the people You’ve placed in my life. May my words be a source of light in dark places and love in a world that desperately needs it. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Reflection Questions:
- What kind of words are you speaking over yourself and your situation?
- Is there someone today who needs to hear life-giving encouragement from you?
- How can you be more intentional with your words this week?
Topic: The Power of Words