"Gift of gab", "a silver-tongue", "smooth-talker"...think of someone you know that you would describe with these words. Would you say that their words also come with power? Probably not. I have certainly been at church and listened or caught myself talking almost solely for the sake of hearing the words myself.

I am reminded of "Chicken Little" claiming that the sky was falling and of "the boy who cried "wolf," examples of messages that lose their power because of the words that they chose, the examples that they shared, and the messages themselves. The word of the Lord is different: "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12). God is not a slick-tongued used car salesmen. His words carry weight, power, enough that it leaves followers astonished. His words do not balance themselves neutrally hoping to encompass all sides. God's words should be taken for what they are, as the way and the truth and the life.

I remember some instances that I felt very embarrassed because I was unsure of how to answer a question or when someone responded to an argument that I posited but left me stumped. God never feels this way. He is omnipotent and gave us His holy word so that we may better understand him. As his devout followers, we must study the word and be challenged, encouraged, and learn to be more like Him. He sent Jesus Christ to earth so that we could see His desires in our own likeness, to hear His words out of a human mouth, but what we do with these blessings is up to us.

Do not worry yourself with offending others or remaining neutral. However, it is imperative to study the word of God and know what He would want you to say and when to say it:

Proverbs 17:27-28 - " He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding."

James 1:19 - "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath"

2 Timothy 3:16 - " All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:"

cclesiastes 3:7 - "A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;"

You are equipped with the tools to do good. Learn the Lord's word and your words will also carry power, as He intended. Thanks be to God.