Why What We Say Matters More Than We Think
Let’s be honest—none of us are perfect when it comes to watching what we say. Sometimes, words just slip out, and we wish we could take them back. But according to Scripture, especially the words of Jesus, what comes out of our mouths is much more important than we often realize.
Our Words Reveal Our Hearts
Jesus said in Matthew 12:37, “By your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” That’s a strong statement! It means that our speech isn’t just “talk”—it actually reveals what’s going on deep inside us. In Matthew 12:34, Jesus explains that “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” Simply put, the things we say are like a window into our hearts. If our hearts are full of kindness and goodness, that’s what will come out. If they’re full of bitterness or anger, those things will eventually show up in our words too.
No Such Thing as “Just Words”
Sometimes we think, “It’s just words, no big deal.” But Jesus makes it clear that words matter. Every “careless word” we speak will be taken into account (Matthew 12:36). On Judgment Day, the things we’ve said will serve as evidence for what’s really in our hearts—good words showing a good heart, and bad words revealing something wrong inside. It’s not that words alone will decide our fate, but they’re a big part of the story they tell about our lives.
Why Are Words So Important?
· They Show Our True Self: Just as you can tell a tree by the fruit it bears, you can tell a person’s heart by their words.
· They Have Real Power: The Bible (James 3:2-12) says the tongue is small but can set a whole life on fire. Our words can build up or tear down, encourage or hurt.
· They Hold Us Accountable: God cares about what we say. Our words can be evidence of a life lived for Him, or of a heart turned away from Him.
Cleaning the Fountain
Think of your heart like a fountain and your words like the water that flows from it. If the fountain is clean, the water is sweet. If the fountain is dirty, the water is, too. Only the “salt of grace”—God’s transforming love—can clean our hearts and, as a result, season our speech. When we let God work in us, our words become more loving, truthful, and kind.
What Does This Mean for Us?
It means we need to pay close attention to what we say—not just to avoid hurting people, but because our words show what’s really inside us. We should make the effort to fill our hearts with good things, so that what comes out is good, too. If we notice harsh, bitter, or careless words coming from our mouths, it’s time for an honest look at what’s going on in our hearts and ask God for help.
A Practical Challenge
Next time you’re about to speak—whether it’s in frustration, anger, or even just casually—pause for a moment. Ask yourself: “What does this say about my heart right now?” Let’s strive to be people whose words reflect the love, grace, and truth of Jesus. Because in the end, our words don’t just affect others—they reveal who we really are.
Minister A Francine Green
December 2025
afrancinegreen.com 