The trees in my yard stand decked out in full regalia. I love the various shades of green formed into canopies cooling our back porch on hot summer days. I enjoy the whisper of wind through their leaves. Sitting quietly in their company nourishes my soul.

Proverbs describe certain words like a healthy tree: Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

The right words at the right time bring wisdom, healing, and vitality. When I make the effort, speaking with kindness and truth nourishes the people around me. Serious power exists in the words we express to one another.

I watched a podcast recently where Steven Bartlett, a popular interviewer in Great Britain, conversed with John Lennox, a highly respected professor and apologist for the Christian faith. At one point Lennox said to Bartlett, when I look at you, I see someone of infinite value made in the image of God. Taken back, Bartlett (who’s not a practicing Christian) smiled in appreciation. Lennox expressed a truth that struck Bartlett somewhere deep. His words brought life.

I pray the Lord works through my heart to produce life-giving responses in my daily interactions. How much better to be known as a person who speaks wisdom and vitality than a person with a sharp tongue.

Holy Spirit, control my speech and make my words a tree of life to someone I meet today.

Proverbs 15:4

Photo by Jan Huber