The 5 Minute Discipleship Podcast

#877: The Danger of Reckless Words

• Loren Hicks

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You and I know a powerful truth very well. Words have power. Our words have the power to bless, encourage, inspire, uplift, and bring hope. Our words also have the power to wound, critique, discourage, and cause pain. Every day we get a choice of which kind of words we will use.


Main Points:

1.  What are “reckless words?” How do we know if we are using them? There are many types of speech that can be considered reckless and potentially hurtful. I think of unnecessary criticism, sarcasm, insensitive comments, blame-shifting, offensive jokes, public humiliation, and personal attacks.


2. Given that our words are so important, how do we guard our hearts against reckless words? How can we make sure our words bless others and bring healing? We begin by recognizing the importance of our words and by asking God to give us wisdom in what we say.


3. When we slow down and when we truly listen to others, we are less likely to speak reckless words. Why? Because genuine listening requires that we care about others. What they say matters. It means something to us. It’s a demonstration of love. 


Today’s Scripture Verses:

Proverbs 12:18 - “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”


Proverbs 15:4 - “The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.”


Matthew 12:36 - “…every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.”


James 1:19 - “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry…”



Psalm 141:3 - “Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.”


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