“Death and Life are in the power of the tongue; those who love it will eat its fruit.”
Proverbs 18:21
This is a reasonably well-known scripture and I’ve heard many sermons about it, I’ve seen many books about it, and at the very least it’s a scripture teaching us to be wise about what we say. However, I think we tend to over-spiritualize this scripture (please don’t misunderstand when I say this). There is definitely a spiritual connotation and takeaway. Still, at the very basis of this Proverb and multiple times through the chapter and book as a complete work, Solomon is simply talking about communicating. King Solomon knew the importance of proper communication. Solomon bore the responsibility of becoming King at the tender age of 12.
The duties of a biblical king ranged from the devout study of God’s word, complete observance of the commandments and laws. They were to defend their nation when necessary while also engaging with surrounding countries for various reasons. With this being said, King Solomon was expected and required to have effective communication to be as effective and as wealthy of a leader as he was when leading Israel (1 Kings 10:14-29). Communication has many benefits when done correctly and it also can have tremendous downsides when done incorrectly. So, in a very practical sense Proverbs, 18:21 is hinting at this when it says life and death are in the power of the tongue. How many times have we cultivated relationships by having good, clear, honest conversations? How many times have we been placed in better situations or circumstances because of productive communication? On the contrary, how many fights and hurt feelings have happened due to poor communication? How much stress have we put on ourselves when someone communicates poorly with us? The scriptures point to the fruit of productive communication as well as the fruit of poor communication.
Effective Communication impacts all areas of our lives, such as work-life, relationships, parenting, finances, and many more. We as humans have a mandate to be proper and effective in communication because we are made in the Image of God and he is the master communicator. He knows how to speak and interact with all of us in our own unique ways without being overbearing and pushy. Today, I pray we recognize how to effectively communicate and follow the advice of Solomon when it comes to the words we speak.
Dear Creator, You created this universe, this world, by speaking. You gave your commands by speaking; you did miracles by speaking. Your word is a story about how you have communicated with humanity to spread your word and your love. Teach us to communicate in the way you do to be an effective steward of the gift of speaking. In all of our words, they are meaningful, honest, filled with your love, and edifying no matter the topic. Let it glorify you. Help us to be Godly Communicators. Amen.
Recommended Scriptures:
Proverbs 18:21
Ephesians 4:29
Psalms 141:3
Proverbs 18:13
Proverbs 21:23
Many Nations 