The Tool Between Your Teeth

Proverbs 12:18-19

New International Version (NIV)

¹⁸ The words of the reckless pierce like swords,
    but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

¹⁹ Truthful lips endure forever,
    but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

Additional Scripture Readings: 
Proverbs 15:4; 
The soothing tongue is a tree of life,
    but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit. 
Proverbs 31:26
²⁶ She speaks with wisdom,
    and faithful instruction is on her tongue. 

The tongue is a two-edged instrument of power. With it we can lash apart a loved one, leaving deep scars. We've seen our child's confidence wilt after our tongue strikes a blow. We've grimaced after thoughtlessly slicing our husband apart with our words. The tongue has an unequaled power to destroy.

But it also has the power to build up and to heal. We can wield it to build a mole-sized self-image into one that is majestically confident. We can use it to offer solace for the open wounds of those around us. A variety of three-word groupings-"You look great!" "Good for you!" "I love you." "I forgive you."-can transform human life.

It has the power to destroy. 

It has the power to heal. 

How will you use the tool between your teeth?