Blood in My Mouth

I want to admit I wrote the title of this post after becoming frustrated with my family but quickly realized this statement has a more profound meaning. You know the typical social media, electronic rant everyone goes on was about to have a new member before I felt a nudging from the Holy Spirit or for some a change of conscious.  For those of us who read and study the Word of God we are familiar with the scripture that says “Life and Death are in the power of the tongue” Proverbs 18:21.  I am going to take some creative license and say that it made me think of my mouth being the cross that Christ hung on. The cross that took His life so that we may have ours. Then the phrase Blood in my mouth took on a completely different meaning to me. It wasn’t a powerless, stuffing of feelings or emotion during conflict it has become a reminder that the symbolic blood in my mouth is my sacrifice for my fellow man to make sure my word did not speak death and harm but life and hope.

I have been told how I have the gift of influence and people listen when I speak, but I never really thought much about the weight of those words until this very second.  My words can be damaging to individuals, neighborhoods, countries, genders. My words  can lead to spiritual, emotional and finally physical death to myself and the receiver. This week I choose to be intentional with my words and speak life and practice holding my responses until prayerfully We may never meet those who read this blog and we may never know the personal struggles we each endure but know that God knows and know that holding your tongue and having a thoughtful response often brings about the result God is pleased with and we ultimately hope to achieve. It was not for nothing holding your tongue!!! that wasn’t for you that was for me full disclosure because even as I type there are subject matters I would love to speak first and let the words land where they may. The problem being I am my brother and sister keeper and that doesn’t just mean in action that means in word as well.

Do you have blood in your mouth? Do you understand the power of your words?

Insight: Your words can build or tear down not just people but nations or it can bring about peace.

This entry has been cathartic for me to share and excellent reminder for me.

Scripture:

Emotional support

Ephesians 4:29 (NLT)

²⁹ Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.

Physical Support

Proverbs 16:24 (NLT)

²⁴ Kind words are like honey—
    sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.