Thursday Thoughts on Words

Every morning this week before I log on to my computer I have been reading from Proverbs. I have read it many times but that’s the way it is with God’s word; no matter how many times you read it you learn something new.  The first few chapters of Proverbs are a father talking to his son about the importance of wisdom. If you haven’t read them in awhile, go back and re-read them. You can’t miss the focus on the power of knowledge.

We spend a lot of time in this life trying to get things: money, power, success, a spouse, a house, a car, etc. How much time do we spend trying to get wisdom?  The answer for me is “not enough.”

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.”  Proverbs 1:7

If I fear the Lord I am at the starting gate of gaining wisdom, but if I don’t pursue it and accept discipline I will never make it to the finish line.

Last night I ran across an article that is based on a chapter in James, one I bet you are familiar with- James 3: 1-13.

The article discussed the old adage “Sticks and stones can break my bones but words can never hurt me,” and questioned the validity of the saying in light of James advice about the tongue. Usually I am a big fan of old time sayings but in this case I have to side with James. Words are sharper than a two edged sword.

I encourage to read the article and you can view it here (Sticks and Stones)

Give it some thought. I think it’s a great essay about the power of our words and our responsibility for how we use them.

Have a great Thursday!