Life or death.....

The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21

The book of Proverbs is awesome. With a perusal through Proverbs it doesn't take long to realize just how powerful the tongue really is. It pronouces one as wise if, in a timely manner, it is held (10:19). It can also nourish many (10:21). It can destroy a neighbor or allow the righteous to escape (11:9). It can guard the soul or cause one to come to ruin (13:3). It has the ability to pierce like a sword or bring healing (12:18). It can be a fountain of life or a place where violence overwhelms (10:11). It can carry and deliver wisdom or invite ruin (10:13,14). It can carry honest testimony or can be full of lies (12:17). It can bring the rod or bring protection (14:3). It can be a tree of life or can crush the spirit (15:4). It can commend knowledge or gush with folly (15:2). It can turn away wrath or stir up anger (15:1). It can even separate close friends (16:28). It can bring strife, beatings, and can be a snare to the soul (18:6,7). It truly has the power of life and death (18:21). So, what will it be this week? Lord, show me this week who needs nourishing, healing, wisdom, honest testimony, protection, knowledge, and life.....then, use me.