Words Like Swords

“തുളച്ചുകയറുന്ന വാളു പോലെ, വീണ്ടുവിചാരമില്ലാതെ വാക്കുകള്‍ പ്രയോഗിക്കുന്നവരുണ്ട്‌; വിവേകിയുടെ വാക്കുകള്‍ മുറിവുണക്കുന്നു. സത്യസന്‌ധമായ വാക്ക്‌ എന്നേക്കും നിലനില്‍ക്കുന്നു; വ്യാജമായ വാക്ക്‌ ക്‌ഷണികമാണ്‌.”

സുഭാഷിതങ്ങള്‍ 12 : 18-19

“Rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.”

The Proverbs 12: 18-19

The words we speak have power, immense power. Proverbs 12:18-19 paints a vivid picture of this power, comparing rash words to sword thrusts that wound and the tongue of the wise to a balm that heals. In this blog post, let’s go into the depths of these verses, gleaning wisdom for a life guided by our words.

Imagine a careless tongue, spewing out harsh words like a flurry of sword strikes. These words pierce the hearts of others, leaving scars that linger long after the initial sting. Gossip, slander, and even hurtful criticism, all fall under the category of these “sword thrusts.” As James 3:5-6 reminds us, even a small fire can ignite a vast forest – our words, however seemingly insignificant, can spark devastating consequences.

But amidst this stark warning, Proverbs offers a beacon of hope: the “tongue of the wise.” This isn’t just about eloquence or intelligence; it’s about speaking with intention, kindness, and truth. It’s about choosing words that build bridges, not walls, that offer solace, not sorrow. As Victor Hugo beautifully wrote, “There are words that are like flowers, which, when one has plucked them, one feels at once the perfume of the heart.”

Think of the times when someone’s thoughtful words have lifted your spirits, offered guidance, or simply made you feel seen and understood. These are the fruits of a wise tongue, words that bring healing and leave a lasting positive impact.

Now, cultivating this wisdom isn’t a one-time feat; it’s a continuous journey. Here are some ways to guide your words on this path:

Practice mindful listening: Before speaking, truly listen to understand, not just to respond. This allows you to discern the needs and feelings of others, shaping your words accordingly.

Choose empathy over judgment: Remember, everyone makes mistakes and faces challenges. Seek to understand, not condemn, and your words will naturally flow with compassion.

Think before you speak: Take a moment to reflect on the potential impact of your words. Would they wound or heal? Would they build or destroy?

Seek guidance from wisdom sources: Immerse yourself in the teachings of the Bible, the wisdom of great authors, and the experiences of those you admire. These can provide valuable insights on using your words wisely.

Remember, our words are like seeds we sow. Let us choose them carefully, to nurture kindness, understanding, and healing. As Proverbs 19:23 reminds us, “The fear of the Lord leads to a secure haven, and he provides a refuge for his children.” By speaking with wisdom and care, we build not just havens for ourselves, but for those around us, creating a world where words are not weapons, but instruments of love and light.

References:

Bible: Proverbs 12:18-19, James 3:5-6, Proverbs 19:23

Victor Hugo: Les Misérables

Additional resources: “The Power of Words” by Don Colbert, “The Wisdom of Words” by Wayne Dyer

May your words be ever mindful, your tongue ever wise, and your heart ever filled with the healing power of true communication.

🌷Every morning, I am blessed with an inspiring wake-up call from His Excellency, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Selvister Ponnumuthan, the Bishop of Punalur in Kerala, India. Today’s blog post draws inspiration from the beautiful verses he shared in his morning message.

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