Christian Living

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The Power Of The Tongue

The tongue in humans can be described as a muscular organ inside the mouth with its primary use being for speech and taste. The tongue, being capable of many motions and configurations, plays a vital role in chewing swallowing and speaking. It also contains the taste buds and many small salivary glands and nerves, which transmit impulses to the brain when stimulated. Though this is a small organ in the body, it is powerful. Proverbs chapter 18 verse 21 states, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.”

The very first indication of the tongue being used in its most powerful form is found in the creation of the earth. Genesis chapter 1 verse 3 states, “And God said, let there be light: and there was light.” The power of this verse can strike to the heart of many Christians. Many times one read the story of creation, but never closely examines the power of the spoken words of God. As the power of speech is taken for granted daily through our conversations, it should be one of the most important aspects of our lives. A spoken word cannot be taken back. It is like a shot, which has been fired from a gun. The outcome of the target is not certain whether it will maintain life or cause death. Many words that are spoken cause much pain to individuals. Often time’s apologies must take its course and hopefully it is accepted. Halley’s Bible Hand book states, “ The Tongue is the main expression of our personality, and usually calls forth an immediate reaction, of one kind or another, in others. Mean words have wrecked many a home, divided many a church, and sent unnumbered millions to despair and ruin. Yet we know many very Religious people who seem never to make even the slightest effort to control their Tongue.” There is a saying that goes, “If you have nothing good to say, then don’t say anything at all.” However it is sad that very few people adhere to these words of wisdom.

The hierarchy’s of the world are bombarded with talk of peace and war in attempt to root out what is believed to be negative human existence; that is responsible for much of the terror in the world today. Many Christians of varying beliefs are also faced with the challenge as to what role they should play in these talks or deeds, which sometimes conflicts with Christian principles. As a Christian one must know that Bible prophesies must be fulfilled. However the prevailing question is: Should one who is a Christian through their words and deeds contribute to the fulfillment of the scriptures? If he/she answers yes, God forbid, for such a one would be considered a son of perdition, (one who is spiritually ruin for the fulfillment of the scriptures) as mention in the book of St John chapter 17 verses 12. As Christians we must remember that although we are in this world, we are not of this world. A Christian’s action/involvement in world events, should be led by the power of the Holy Spirit and not by ones opinion of the world. Jesus chose twelve disciples and through the power of the tongue he was betrayed by one and denied by another before his death on the cross.

In the law of the land, major emphasis is also placed on what one say. For example, when one who is suspected of committing an offence by the police is arrested, he/she is cautioned of their rights to remain silent and that whatever is said can and may be used against him/her in a court of law. The tongue is a key instrument for human communication for those who can speak, and it is said that, “whatever is in ones heart usually comes out through one’s mouth during his/her speech.” With so much emphasis being placed on the heart, the source by which one’s character is manifested; this serves to sum up the saying, ‘that one is known by one’s speech.’ Therefore it is always good to think before you speak.

Having elaborated on the primary focus of the tongue, let us explore some secondary aspects of its use. Man has added a tantalizing flair for the use of the tongue to enhance romantic stimulation. For example kissing and other intimate acts of the flesh. Though many consider some of these acts unnatural worldwide, they are done usually on consent by those concerned. The tongue is also used to beguile many into other deceiving acts that one would not ordinarily engage in. Further, there is a power in the tongue that is vested in many persons; especially the elderly of a community that is rarely spoken of but it do exist. This is “the curse.” If one were to do wrong to a person who is blessed with the power of the Holy Spirit, if he/she puts a curse on that wrong doer, through the power of the tongue, out if the bitterness of their hearts, God will hear their cry and answer them. Other curses that are not of God do exist. Persons of the world would have such knowledge in bringing about the evil powers of the tongue from a demonic point of view. Such curses have been placed on many, but persons who don’t believe they exist do not always understand it. Likewise when Christians sincerely pray the blessings of God on another, they will receive it. Many miracle healings and persons being raised from the dead has taken place through the power of the tongue. Parents/Guardians should be very careful with the negative use of the tongue towards children, which has been proven to be detrimental to the character building of many children. Many attributes of the tongue are not always recognized but they are practiced, whether for good or bad.

James chapter 3 verses 5-8 describe the tongue in this manner, “Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity; so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” The scripture also states that this same tongue used to bless God is also used to curse men who were made after the similitude of God. This same tongue is also used for blessing and cursing which ought not to be.

Having captured the power, danger and deceitfulness of the tongue, one would wonder how is it possible to manage the use of the tongue in ones speech? As Christians we are thought by Jesus Christ in Matthew chapter 5 verse 34 says, “ But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne:” Matthew chapter 5 verse 37 says, “But let your communication be, Yea, Yea; Nay, Nay: for whatsoever is more than these commeth evil.” After studying this verse, persons with wisdom can appreciate the value of the tongue. For if one were to elaborate on a yes or no answer, the listener can look for flaws and loopholes to discredit the answer given, to bring about an evil thought. I pray that through this article all can now understand the power of the tongue and endeavor to ensure that all conversations be upright. God bless you all.

Roderick R. Mckenzie Sr.
[email protected]

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