The spoken word has the power to transform or destroy lives, and Christian speaker and author Joyce Meyer is encouraging Christians to use God's gift of speech to spread love and kindness.
In an article on her website, Meyer wrote that people often get in trouble because of the things they say, particularly those with an "unbridled" tongue. She herself struggled with the power of speech for years, but when she learned to use it for God's glory and say the right things, Meyer discovered great joy.
"Our words can do severe damage to our relationships, our careers and the world around us. But here's the good news: With the help of the Holy Spirit, they can also do great good," she said. "God can give us the wisdom we need to control our tongues and learn to speak life-giving words that reflect the love of Christ and what His Word says."
Meyer said that Christians should open their mouths to bless themselves and other people, as well as give thanks. Thank God for blessings and thank other people for everything they have done, she urged.
Words should also be used for encouraging people and building them up, as well as telling the truth. "Holding on to the truth might mean losing a friend or your reputation. If you're going to be committed to the truth, there will be times when you'll have to make a sacrifice," said Meyer. "Hang on to it no matter what it costs you. It is so rewarding—the Bible says then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Meyer added that Christians should speak the Word of God faithfully, since it has the power to "break the hardest things you're facing into pieces."
Lastly, she reminded people not to talk too much and discern the right times for silence. "A lot of times, we just need to be quiet. I think it's interesting that we have two eyes, two ears, two nostrils—and only one mouth. We need to be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to get angry," she said.
