Serving Up Life

“A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” (Prov. 18:20-21) This means that people always eat what they say. If your words are sharp and bitter, you will have sharp and bitter meals to eat. If your words are empty lies and flattery then you will feast on deceit and treachery. And if your words are full of gossip and criticism then with the same measure you have measured it will be measured back to you. But not only do you eat your own words but all who hear your words feed upon them as well. Death and life are in the power of the tongue; harsh, critical, and bitter words are poison and death not only to you but to your children, your spouse, your neighbors and friends. But words of joy, thankfulness, and blessing are words that make bones strong, hearts glad, and give life. We are celebrating Easter, the reality of resurrection life, the world made new. Therefore do not speak as though Jesus is still in the grave. Do not complain, do not harp on one another, do not backbite, do not constantly critique your friends and neighbors, do not lie, do not speak to your children as though they were only chattel. If you are guilty of these things, use your tongue to begin giving life now by confessing them and forsaking them. Christ is risen. Therefore feast on these things. Rejoice in the goodness of God in your words, and serve up life for dinner.