Have you ever thought about how powerful your words are? The phrase “with your tongue blessings or cursing” gets right to the heart of that. It talks about how speech can have a dual nature, meaning the same mouth can be used to say positive, uplifting things or negative, hurtful ones.
This idea comes from a passage in the Bible, James 3:9-10. Here’s the gist: it points out the irony of how we can use our words to praise God and then turn around and speak badly about others. The issue? Those same people we might criticize are made in God’s image, just like us. It’s a bit like cheering for your favorite team one second and then tearing down your teammates the next—it just doesn’t add up.
The message is simple but powerful: if we truly want to live out wisdom and goodness, then our words should consistently reflect that. It’s not about being perfect, but about striving to speak in ways that build people up rather than tear them down. Your words have the power to heal, encourage, and inspire—or to hurt, divide, and discourage.
Think about it like this: your tongue is like a tiny tool with a big impact. You can use it to create something beautiful or to do damage. What we say reveals a lot about our true character, and this passage reminds us to aim for consistency. If we’re blessing God, our words should also bless others—not contradict that blessing by spreading negativity.
Seasoning Our Words with Grace
Colossians 4:6 invites believers to ensure that their speech is “seasoned with salt,” a vivid metaphor that emphasizes the importance of words that are both gracious and impactful. Just as salt enhances flavor and preserves, our words should enrich conversations and build others up. Speaking with grace means being kind, thoughtful, and considerate, even when faced with challenges. It reflects wisdom—knowing when to speak, how to speak, and what to say—so that our words lead to understanding and encouragement. Ultimately, this verse reminds us of the power of language to embody love and reflect the character of Christ in our daily interactions.
At the end of the day, practicing kindness, respect, and positivity in how we speak isn’t just good for others—it’s also good for us. So, the next time you’re about to speak, pause for a second and ask: Will my words bring blessings or cursing? It’s a small change, but one that can make a big difference.
Minister A Francine Green
June 2025
afrancinegreen.com 