Spoken words

Know this, my beloved brothers;

let every person be

quick to hear

slow to speak and

slow to anger.

James 1:19

Once a word is spoken, it can never be erased.  There are no delete or backspace buttons when we speak.  When will I learn this lesson? 

Conflict is a part of life.  How we handle the conflict determines the outcome. We must choose our battles wisely. So, what happens when I find myself in an argument?  When something or someone sparks feelings of anger?  What is my natural reaction?  When I speak, do smiles fade and tensions rise? Or does peace come through the quiet strength of restraint? 

A soft answer turns away wrath,

but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 15:1

But the things that come out of a person's mouth come from the heart.

Matthew 15:18

Words have great power.  The power to build up or the power to tear down.   Our words can give life or bring destruction.  The choice is ours.