Evidently, God hears and records every idle word that we speak. Psalm 139:4 records, "There is not a word on my tongue, but behold, O Lord, you know it altogether." "Idle" words are "negative, unfruitful, barren, ineffective" words. I Corinthians 14:26 says, "Let all things be done for edification (building up)", just the opposite of negative and unfruitful words.

A friend of mine just called. He expressed his intention to bring me a paper I have been wanting. He said, "I'll bring it if I don't forget. I may forget because I am so forgetful anymore." He is reinforcing his forgetfulness. He basically was tearing himself down instead of building (edifying) himself up. Proverbs 18:21 says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit."

I felt impressed to encourage you to be careful of the words you speak. If you are in a difficult circumstance speak " life" not " death" to the situation. Proverbs 12:18 says, " The tongue of the wise promotes health." If you are fighting an infirmity, speak God's Word on healing. Speak life! Proverbs 15:2 declares, " The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly." Gain the knowledge of the promises of God's Word and use it wisely. Jesus said in Matthew 12:34 " Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." Fill you heart with God's Word and your mouth will speak it.

1 Thessaionians 5:11 admonishes us to " edify (build up) one another." Look for someone to 'build up' this week. Proverbs 10:20 says, " The tongue of the righteous is choice silver." Enrich someone today by what you speak into their life and be blessed!"