by Mike Bennett

Many times in the Proverbs wise King Solomon contrasted good and bad uses of the tongue. Good communication is an essential human need, but it doesn’t come naturally. We must learn how to express ourselves in ways that encourage others, build relationships and otherwise promote health.

It’s too easy to fall into destructive communication patterns, even unintentionally. But if someone actually intends to use his or her tongue as a weapon, watch out!

David described his enemies this way in Psalm 57:4: “My soul is among lions; I lie among the sons of men who are set on fire, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.”

For more about good communication, see our section on “Communication.”