Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.”
John 19:22 (NIV)
Lord Jesus, as I read this verse this morning my mind immediately thought Pilate had no idea what he was declaring. By writing above Your head “The King of the Jews” he thought he was slapping the Jews in the face. In actually he was declaring to the world Who You are and Your supremacy over all creation. And it went completely over his head!
How many times have I been oblivious of the significance of what comes out my mouth? How many times have I thought I was saying one thing but how it came out said something else?
Lord, Proverbs has a lot to say about my words. It declares my words can soothe or crush someone’s spirit (Proverbs 15:4). When I’m reckless with them they can be confrontational or when I’m wise with them they can bring healing (Proverbs 12:18). In short, I can bring down or build up with what I am saying (Proverbs 18:21).
Help me to guard my tongue today, Lord. Keep me ever conscious of the impact that my words have on those around me. Continue not only to remind me that my words have consequences, but that they also have the power to build up or tear down. It is my desire to build up Your Kingdom and others with my words. Don’t allow me to be oblivious to their impact. I want my words to bring You glory, edify the lives of others, and speak love, peace and joy into this world. So I ask that the Holy Spirit would put a watch over my heart, mind, and mouth that I might be used by You to speak truth and love into this world, all to Your glory. In Your Name I pray. Amen.