1. Introduction
Speech is one of the most powerful faculties given to human beings. From the earliest chapters of Genesis, words are shown to have the capacity to create, to name, to bless, and to direct. The Bible consistently affirms that the human tongue holds both life-giving and destructive power, and this is not limited to religious or covenantal contexts. This article explores how speech can bring about real blessing—even among unbelievers—because of the moral and spiritual weight God assigned to words in the created order.
2. The Tongue in the Created Image of God
2.1 God Speaks Creation into Existence
Genesis 1:3
“And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.”
God’s first recorded act is one of speech. Creation itself is brought forth through divine utterance. Thus, when humanity is made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), it includes the capacity for meaningful, creative, and consequential speech.
2.2 Humans Given the Power to Name
Genesis 2:19–20
“He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name.”
Naming is not a neutral act. Biblically, to name is to exercise authority and definition, showing that human speech carries real-world implications.
3. The Moral and Spiritual Power of Words
3.1 Proverbs: Speech as a Life-Giving Force
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
This principle is universal. It applies to all humans, not only believers. The “fruit” here refers to the natural consequences of speech—words spoken in wisdom or folly.
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
Words can wound or heal, tear down or build up, reflecting the moral architecture God embedded in speech.
3.2 James 3:1–12 – The Tongue Is a Fire
James 3:9–10
“With the tongue we praise our Lord… and with it we curse human beings… This should not be.”
James’ instruction recognises the contradictory power of the tongue. While focused on believers, the moral principles here apply universally—the tongue shapes relationships, reputations, and communities.
4. Blessing with the Tongue: Examples from Scripture
4.1 Unbelievers Using Speech to Bless
- Pharaoh to Joseph (Genesis 41:40): “You shall be in charge of my palace…”
Pharaoh’s words elevate Joseph, setting in motion regional blessing. - Melchizedek to Abram (Genesis 14:19): “Blessed be Abram by God Most High…”
Though mysterious and likely outside Abraham’s covenant, Melchizedek’s words are honoured and remembered in Hebrews 7. - Cornelius to Peter (Acts 10:33): “Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen…”
Though not yet converted, Cornelius speaks with reverence and readiness, opening the door for the Spirit’s work.
4.2 Believers Blessing with the Tongue
- Numbers 6:24–26 – The Priestly Blessing: “The Lord bless you and keep you…”
Spoken by priests, this liturgical blessing reveals how spoken words carry divine commission. - Luke 1:42 – Elizabeth to Mary: “Blessed are you among women…”
Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, blesses Mary through verbal recognition of divine favour.
5. When Words Reflect the Law Written on the Heart
Even among unbelievers, the right use of the tongue—honest praise, just judgment, kind counsel—can bear real fruit, because it reflects what Paul describes in:
Romans 2:14–15
“…they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts…”
Therefore, a judge who speaks justice, a parent who encourages, or a teacher who uplifts may bless others without consciously invoking God, because they align with universal moral truth.
6. Caution: Words Can Also Curse or Mislead
The same power that blesses can destroy.
Proverbs 26:28
“A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin.”
James 3:5–6
“The tongue is a small part of the body… it corrupts the whole body.”
These warnings apply to all people, because speech is morally charged by default. Words spoken in deceit, hatred, or pride lead to relational and societal damage—even when not spiritually assessed.
7. God Ultimately Judges Every Word
Matthew 12:36–37
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.”
This includes believers and unbelievers alike. Words matter eternally, not just functionally. But until judgment, they continue to shape lives on earth—for blessing or ruin.
8. Conclusion
God created speech to be more than a communication tool—it is a moral and spiritual force. The tongue can bless or curse, heal or destroy, regardless of the speaker’s faith. When someone speaks from truth, goodwill, or justice, their words can bless others powerfully, because they align with God’s natural order. While ultimate spiritual blessing comes through Christ, temporal and emotional fruitfulness is often produced simply by honest, wise, and compassionate speech—even from unbelievers.
References
- Genesis 1:3; 2:19–20; 14:19; 41:40
- Proverbs 12:18; 18:21; 26:28
- Numbers 6:24–26
- Matthew 12:36–37
- Luke 1:42
- Acts 10:33
- Romans 2:14–15
- James 3:1–12
- Hebrews 7