The Power of Words in Proverbs 18:21

How the words we speak shape our lives and the lives of others

Have you ever stopped to think about how much impact your words have?

Do the words you speak bring life, encouragement, and hope—or do they tear down and destroy?

Proverbs 18:21 says, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” This verse reminds us that what we say carries eternal weight, both for ourselves and for those around us.

Let’s explore the profound truths behind this verse and how we can use our words to glorify God, build others up, and live in alignment with His will.

The tongue has the power to build or destroy

Words are never neutral—they either bring life or death.

When Solomon wrote Proverbs 18:21, he wasn’t speaking metaphorically. Our words have a profound impact on others. They can heal or hurt, encourage or discourage, and bring hope or despair. Words spoken in anger, gossip, or criticism can deeply wound someone’s spirit. On the other hand, words of kindness, truth, and love can bring healing and restoration.

James 3:5-6 echoes this truth, comparing the tongue to a small spark that can set an entire forest ablaze. Just as fire spreads quickly, so do words of negativity or destruction. As believers, we must use our words wisely, choosing to speak life into every situation.

Speaking life means speaking God’s truth

Life-giving words are rooted in Scripture and God’s promises.

When we align our speech with God’s Word, we bring life not only to others but also to ourselves. Speaking God’s promises over our lives reminds us of His faithfulness, strengthens our faith, and helps us overcome challenges. For example, speaking verses like Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength,” can empower us during difficult times.

Speaking life doesn’t mean ignoring reality or pretending everything is perfect. Instead, it means choosing words that reflect faith, hope, and love, even in the face of trials. Words of encouragement, prayer, and Scripture carry the power to uplift, inspire, and bring glory to God.

The fruit of our words reveals our heart

Our words are a reflection of what is in our hearts.

Proverbs 18:21 emphasizes that those who love the power of the tongue will eat its fruit. This means that our words produce outcomes in our lives—either positive or negative. If we consistently speak words of faith, gratitude, and love, we will reap a harvest of joy, peace, and blessing. Conversely, if our words are filled with bitterness, negativity, or hatred, the fruit will be destructive.

Jesus taught this same principle in Matthew 12:34 when He said, “For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.” If our hearts are filled with God’s love and truth, our words will naturally reflect His character. But if our hearts are filled with anger, envy, or pride, our speech will reveal it.

Guarding our tongue requires intentionality

Speaking life requires discipline and the help of the Holy Spirit.

It’s easy to speak carelessly, especially in moments of frustration or anger. That’s why Scripture repeatedly warns us to guard our tongues. Proverbs 21:23 says, “Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.”

To guard our tongues, we must first guard our hearts. Spending time in prayer and Scripture allows the Holy Spirit to transform our hearts, making it easier to speak words that reflect God’s love. Before we speak, we should ask ourselves:

• Is this true?

• Is this kind?

• Does this bring glory to God?

When we filter our words through these questions, we’re less likely to say something we’ll regret.

Final reflection

Our words have eternal consequences.

Proverbs 18:21 reminds us of the immense power God has given us through our words. The question is, how will we use that power? Will we use it to bring life, healing, and encouragement—or will we allow careless words to cause harm?

As believers, we are called to speak life in every situation. Let us commit to using our words to glorify God, build others up, and share His love with the world. By doing so, we not only honor Him but also plant seeds of life that will bear fruit for eternity.

How will you use your words today?