David longed for water and said, “Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem!” – 1 Chronicles 11:17, NIV
David was safely in a stronghold, looking toward Bethlehem, where the Philistines had set up camp. Then he remarked about the sweet, pure water that came from the well in Bethlehem.
Upon hearing this, David’s elite warriors immediately set out on a journey. They travel through enemy areas just to bring a flask filled with water from Bethlehem.
When they present it to him, David refuses to drink the water.
“God forbid that I should do this!” he said. “Should I drink the blood of these men who went at the risk of their lives?” Because they risked their lives to bring it back, David would not drink it. (1 Chronicles 11:19)
Underestimating the impact of your words is easy. A simple remark, a word muttered under your breath, can influence those around you even if you don’t realize it.
Part of being a Christ follower is learning to guard your tongue and speak words of truth and grace. If you mess up, as David did, be quick to own up to it and ask for forgiveness from God.
Prayer:
God, open my eyes to the impact of my words. Let me speak only truth and grace over myself and those around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
