your words matter

This phrase, “your words,” appears 13 times in a King James Bible. The first time is found in Genesis 42:16 and the last time is in Matthew 10:14. It shows up here in Malachi 3:13 with the word “stout” (4 x’s in KJV) associated with it. Stout has a few definitions, but in the context the word means “proud” (verse 15).

Make no mistake, the battle, especially in these last days, is over words. Whether it be the words of God (i.e. Which Bible?), the words of science (i.e. masks, gender, etc), or the words of theology (i.e. repentance, saved, Trinity, etc.).

God hears and knows the words that we speak and the heart behind the words that come out of our mouths. These words have “wearied the LORD” (2:17) throughout history and there are a few example of the “your words” that weary him the most.

1. Foolish words (2:17)

2. Proud words (3:13-15)

3. Blasphemous words (Ezekiel 35:12-13)

4. Vain words (Jeremiah 42:4, 20)

5. Discouraging words (Deuteronomy 1:34, 28)

“Your words” are “proved, whether there be any truth in you” (Genesis 42:16). “Your words” are judged (Genesis 44:10). “Your words” are your bond (Joshua 2:21). “Your words” are another’s “salvation” (Matthew 10:14).

When we have the heart to match the “well spoken” words of Deuteronomy 5:28, then “your words” are “acceptable” with God and that should be our desire (Psalm 19:14).