The Power of the Tongue Promotes Good or Evil – (Proverbs 12:17-19)

Daily Bible Study
Many people, including believers fail to understand the power of the tongue and its ability for good or for evil. In addition, many fail to understand just how much what comes from the tongue is a true reflection of what's in our hearts. All speech begins in the heart before it ever leaves the mouth. Our speech is a reflection of the source from which our heart draws its strength and character. If that source is God's word and the wisdom of God taught to us through the Holy Spirit, then our speech is true. It glorifies God and builds up others. However, if the source from which our heart draws its influence is this fallen world, then our speech is corrupted and ultimately it's influenced by the one the Apostle Paul calls the "prince of the power of the air" who is Satan. God's word tells us that Satan is the major source of influence for this world.

Therefore, to draw influence from this fallen world is to promote rebellion against God. The righteous speak with humility and truth in order to promote justice and preserve life. The righteous seek to build up others with their words in order to bring health and guidance for good, along with wisdom, which honors God. They do so because their hearts are guided by the indwelling Holy Spirit, and the source of their strength is Christ Jesus our Lord. Whereas the wicked are full of deceit, always conniving, always looking to destroy! Their words are like a piercing sword, which takes away life, seeking to destroy others. The wicked by their own ignorance destroy the very foundation upon which they walk, all the while building up God's wrath against themselves. They do so, because in ignorance and rebellion, they follow the world. A world which is under the influence of Satan, a world which is at enmity with God, one that is dying and passing away.