Words can be powerful,
     more than we know.
For good or for bad,
      either way it can go.
A careless word spoken
     is striking a spark.
Then the mind quickly takes us
     to a place that is dark.
Over and over
     the mind plays a word.
And after a while
     nothing else can be heard. 

I think far too often
     our tongue starts to say.
Things that are hurtful
     and get in the way.
Words come between us
     when freely they flow.
We don’t stop to think,
     so out the mouth they do go.
If you’re not so certain
     of all of these claims.
Then pick up a Bible,
     read the words penned by James. 

And while this sounds hopeless
     and out of control.
Words can bring healing
     and help make you whole.
A word fitly spoken
     is like an apple of gold.
A word that brings healing
     is a thing to behold!
The Word that is Jesus
     is quite a big deal.
A word from the Savior
     has the power to heal. 

So as you consider
     the words that you use.
The ones that bring healing,
     I pray you do choose.
The ones that are careless
     and bring such great hurt.
I pray you remove them
     along with the dirt.
And as you spread good things
     by what you do say.
I pray that God’s Spirit
     brings great healing today.

©

This is one of three poems that rolled out of my head in rather quick succession as I spent time listening to God for direction and peace.  I pray that these words are of the healing kind in your life and mine.

In prayer,
Tom