“. . . a man is satisfied by the yield of his lips . . . Death and life are in the power of the tongue . . .” — Proverbs 18:20–21 ESV

Our upcoming trip to Italy is something we have been planning and looking forward to since January. Yet, as we draw closer to departure, we are experiencing some anxiety. Air travel in recent years seems to have grown more stressful. I catch myself imagining delays.

But then, by grace, I find myself remembering that the past has no power over the future. I’m usually able to substitute a hope-filled thought such as, “But what if it’s wonderful!”

The other night, I was confronted by God regarding a deeper issue, one that lies beneath the surface of this travel unease. Pulling up the covers, I nestled down into bed, slowed my breathing, and initiated my inner conversation with the Lord. Usually, I affirm all His goodness, giving thanks for His providence that day. This particular night, the Spirit convicted me. He spotlighted how I had spoken out loud to our son and my sister-in-law, describing my sense of vulnerability and fragility in the face of travel. On this trip, once again, we will be out of our comfort zone—navigating Italian roads, meeting Airbnb hosts, finding grocery stores, following quirky directions as we explore, and using the language.

God interrupted my moment of thanksgiving with this thought: “Why talk about what you don’t want, Maria? Don’t you know that death and life are in the power of the tongue?”

I almost gasped with the realization that He was describing exactly what I had done. With clarity, I could see how careless I have grown in uttering the negative—not that we are to be Pollyannas—no. But to proclaim or announce circumstances I don’t want? Studies show that the words each of us speaks aloud carry weight, and our ears and hearts receive them.

The following morning, enjoying coffee with the Lord, I noted in my prayer journal what had happened and asked for help to change—not just my words, but my thoughts as well.

I located where Solomon mentions the power of our vocalized beliefs. The prior verse convinced me all the more of just how powerful my lips can be. Better to declare God’s Word than my thoughts. I can either enjoy a feast of goodness or live on a beggar’s ration.