Acceptable Words and Pleasing Thoughts

We’ve all heard the saying “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.” Unfortunately, the latter portion of that saying isn’t always true. Words do have the power to hurt others. In the Bible, James describes our tongues as very difficult to tame. Without God’s help, it can’t be done.

King David also knew the power of words. In Psalm 19 he praises God for revealing Himself in nature and through His Word. Verses 7 through 13 extol the wonders of God’s Word and declare that it reveals not only God but also man’s condition. David ends the psalm with a plea that his words, both spoken and unspoken, be acceptable and pleasing to God.

Often, we’re tempted to speak before we think—especially in times of stress and tiredness. Rather than bringing blessing to those around us, we might even curse those we love. We can rip into their weaknesses and tear down their character instead of lifting them up with encouragement.

Today, let’s make David’s prayer our own, by meditating on the truth of God’s Word. Then our words will truly be acceptable and pleasing—to the Lord and to our loved ones.