Empty Words
We live in a time when our thoughts and opinions can be shared throughout the world at a moment’s notice, with little to no accountability. Because of that, it can be easy to forget that we will all have to give an account for every empty word we have ever spoken.
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Matthew 12:36-37
When I consider the fact that John 1:1 describes Jesus as the Word, it convicts me of how many times I have used my words judgmentally, hastily, sarcastically, and even carelessly.
Some of us spend a lot of time considering the right words to say, the right tone to use, and the right time to speak. God’s Word tells us that it is not only what we say and how we say it that are important. What is equally important is what we choose not to say.
“Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.”
Ecclesiastes 5:2
I have often been guilty of being very sarcastic with my words. I have frequently said things without thinking about how another person will perceive it. Unfortunately, that has led me to make some careless statements in haste without genuinely considering how they would be received.
On their own, these statements may seem harmless and well-intentioned:
God won’t give you more than you can handle.
God does everything for a reason.
God is in control.
But to the person who was just diagnosed with cancer...to the person who is planning funeral arrangements for their spouse, child, or parent...to the person who has miscarried for the 3rd time…to the person who has just lost their job…
…these well-intentioned words can be heartbreaking and devastating.
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
Proverbs 12:18
You see, God always speaks purposefully into our lives. He doesn’t waste words or speak without reason. Each and every word in scripture has significance and power. Therefore, we must never underestimate the power of our own words which can be life-draining rather than life-giving.
Because God is our Comforter, and we are created in His image, we naturally have a strong desire to comfort others. For many of us, that comfort involves speaking words of encouragement. However, when people are in the midst of tragedy and experiencing overwhelming pain, it can often be our Spirit-led actions that speak louder than our words.
Jesus used His words to bring life and hope to people. When there were no words to say, Jesus listened. He wept with those who wept, served those who were hungry, ate with those who were rejected and persecuted, and healed those who were broken.
We must follow the example of Jesus. How can you breathe life into the people around you with silence, by ministering with a hug, a listening ear, a helping hand, or simply your reassuring presence?