Life and Death in the Tongue

Scripture Focus:
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.”
— Proverbs 18:21 (ESV)

Devotional Thought:
Words are not neutral. According to Scripture, they carry the power to either speak life or speak death. This is more than poetic language—it’s a spiritual reality. What we say has impact. Our words can heal or wound, encourage or discourage, build up or tear down.

In Proverbs 18:21, we’re reminded that our tongue isn’t just a muscle in our mouth—it’s a spiritual instrument. Life-giving words align with the truth and heart of God. Death-dealing words echo the enemy’s strategy of accusation, division, and despair.

Think about it:

• One word can start a fight or end one.

• One sentence can bring comfort or cause deep offense.

• One conversation can open a heart to the Gospel or close it off entirely.

And this isn’t just about how we speak to others—it’s also about how we talk to ourselves and to God. Many believers weaken themselves through self-criticism, pessimism, or careless speech. But God is calling His people to become intentional with their words, releasing blessing, truth, and hope into the atmosphere.

Prayer Focus:

• Ask the Holy Spirit to make you aware of the weight of your words.

• Repent for any ways you’ve spoken death—over yourself, others, or your circumstances.

• Pray that your tongue would be surrendered to God’s purposes—used to speak life, truth, and encouragement.

Reflection Question:
What kind of fruit have my words been producing in my life and in the lives of those around me?

Closing Prayer:
Lord, I surrender my words to You. Help me recognize the power of the tongue and use it to speak life, healing, and truth. Let my speech reflect Your heart, and may the fruit of my mouth bring glory to You and strength to others. In Jesus’ name, amen.