Stings Like A Bee – by Alisha Ritchie
“The tongue has the power of life and death…” Proverbs 18:21
Her harsh words sting me like a bee. I feel hurt and confused that a perfect stranger would talk to me this way. This woman ruined my day with her unnecessary words and all I want to do is get away from her and the situation as quickly as possible.
My rude encounter reminds me of a quote by an anonymous author I read online recently, “The tongue has no bones but is strong enough to break a heart.” The statement is a good reminder my words are very powerful. In Proverbs, I read that my comments can breathe life into others or bring death and destruction.
I’m given chances to build others up or break them down with what comes out of my mouth. I regret countless times I’ve spoken words that weren’t positive and certainly meant to hurt rather than help. I don’t intentionally want to hurt people with what I say but sometimes I lose self-control.
God knows I struggle with taming my tongue. He reminds me to focus on Him, asking Him for help. I can’t do it on my own. He’s there to provide self-control, to focus my attention on saying what’s needed, and to ultimately point others to Him with my voice.
Make a decision today to use your words to help others, providing encouragement in a world full of negativity.
“Lord, please help me use my words wisely today. Guide me in lifting others up so You may bring life to them. Give me discernment to speak necessary words so You may be glorified. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.” Alisha Ritchie writes from North Carolina where she lives with her husband of almost twenty years and two wonderful children. Contact | 
