Body Language: Surrender Your Words

As we continue our Body Language series, we’re reminded that when we encounter Jesus, our lives should experience real transformation. God doesn’t just want to change our minds, our eyes, or our actions—He wants the whole of us to be made new, including the words we speak.

Our words matter because our words produce something. Proverbs 18:21 tells us that the tongue has the power of life and death. Every word we speak has the capacity to create an atmosphere around us. Our words can encourage, heal, and bring life, or they can wound, divide, and produce destruction.

James 3 compares the tongue to a small spark that can set an entire forest on fire. The tongue is powerful, and Scripture makes it clear that we cannot simply tame it through our own strength. But while we cannot control our tongues on our own, we can surrender them to the Holy Spirit.

A surrendered mouth is an honoring mouth.

Our words should match the message of Jesus. Ephesians 4:29 challenges us to let go of words that are rotten or worthless and instead speak what builds others up and benefits those who hear. Gossip produces division. Slander damages reputations. Name-calling produces shame. Complaining produces discontentment. When our words don’t match the message of Jesus, we create confusion for a watching world.

But this message is not about condemnation—it’s a wake-up call. Jesus knew we couldn’t do this life on our own, which is why He gave us the Holy Spirit. Luke 6:45 reminds us that “out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” Our words often reveal what is happening inside of us. When we listen to our own words, the Holy Spirit can use them to show us areas of our hearts that still need healing, surrender, and transformation.

So how do we surrender our mouths to God?

Stop and pause.
James 1:19 tells us to be quick to listen and slow to speak. Sometimes the most honoring thing we can do is simply pause before responding.

Ask and listen.
Invite the Holy Spirit into your conversations, texts, emails, and difficult moments. Ask Him what you should say—and be willing to obey even when He tells you to say nothing.

Filter everything.
Is it true? Is it necessary? Does it build others up? If not, it may not need to be said.

Speak life.
Practice encouragement, thanksgiving, blessing, and confession. Sometimes two simple words—“I’m sorry”—can bring healing to something that has been broken for years.

Ultimately, if we want our words to reflect Jesus, they should sound like Him. They should carry forgiveness when forgiveness isn’t deserved, grace that isn’t earned, love when hate is loud, and encouragement when someone has failed.

When our words reflect His message, healing happens. When our words reflect His message, lives are changed.

This week, take time to ask the Holy Spirit: What do I need to stop saying? What do I need to start saying? Who needs to hear these words? How can I produce life today?

The tongue has the power of death and life. We get to choose what fruit we will eat.