The Power Of Speech
Van Ledbetter
De Queen AR
11/11/98
The Power Of Speech
It would not be possible to overestimate the importance of using the gift of speech in the way God wants us to use it. Many of us don’t stop to think about the powerful effect the things we say may have on others. A poet has written:
A careless word may kindle strife;
A cruel word may wreck a life;
A bitter word may hate instill;
A brutal word may smite or kill.
A gracious word may smooth the way;
A joyous word may light the day;
A timely word may lessen stress;
A loving word may heal and bless.
We put bits in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!
James 3.3-5.
—Van Ledbetter
De Queen, AR
