In “Life or Death: The Choice in Your Words,” Pastor Adam Stadtmiller explores the transformative power of our speech through the lens of Proverbs. Using key scriptures, this sermon challenges us to recognize the influence of our words and equips us to guard and filter them for the glory of God.
Key Scriptures:
- Proverbs 10:19 – “When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.”
- Proverbs 12:18 – “There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
- Proverbs 15:1 – “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
- Proverbs 18:21 – “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.”
Main Point:
You will live or die by the tongue.
Two Principles for Speech:
Guard Your Words:
- Guarding your tongue protects your soul. Once words are spoken, they cannot be reclaimed.
Proverbs 21:23: “Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.”- Reckless words can pierce like swords, but wise words bring healing (Proverbs 12:18).
Filter Your Words:
- Let wisdom guide your speech.
Proverbs 17:27-28: “The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint... Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent.”
Proverbs 15:28: “The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.”
Practical Takeaways:
- Spend time in God’s wisdom literature (Proverbs, Ecclesiastes) to shape your speech.
- Engage in a “criticism fast,” intentionally abstaining from negative or unkind words.
