Wise Leaders Know the Power of Words

"And God says, 'I'm gonna turn it into something different; I'm gonna turn it into something good. I'm gonna take all the broken pieces and make something beautiful like only I could.' So put it all in the hands of the Father. Give it up, give it all over to the only One Who can turn it into something beautiful!" Steven Curtis Chapman sings these lyrics in his song, "Something Beautiful," reminding us that God is in control and can use us even in our low moments.

The central Scripture for tonight is:

"Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked...
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked...
Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of him who lacks judgment.
Wise men store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin...
When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise...
The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment."
--Proverbs 10:6, 11, 13-14, 19, 21 (NIV)

It is important for people to choose their words carefully. The tongue is very powerful. "The tongue has the power of life and death," says Proverbs 18:21 (NIV).

It is even more important for leaders to learn how to hold their tongues when necessary and to know when to be quiet. Also, we need to know when we should speak.

Maxwell lists five things that leaders can accomplish when they learn the power their words hold:

• "They proclaim justice and are blessed." (See verse 6.)
• "They speak hope for the future, becoming a fountain of life to others." (See verse 11.)
• "They speak forth wisdom and save others from ruin." (See verses 13 and 14.)
• "They know when silence is more powerful than words." (See verse 19.)
• "Their words feed and nourish many others." (See verse 21.)

He also says, "Leaders who use words skillfully increase their influence." So not only do leaders help others when they use their words carefully, but they also benefit themselves. Both parties win. 

The reflection question asks: "What kind of influence are your words having on others?" Think seriously on this question. The answer may differ from time to time. However, when we fail, we should seek forgiveness, ask God to lead us back to the right road, and follow His guidance. His words are more important than ours. We should speak His Word in our lives, because His Word is mighty to save!

God bless you!