1. Proverbs 18:21 “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat of its fruit”

2. I. We Are Accountable for What We Say (Matthew 12:33-37). (vs. 33) Speech = “fruit” (again). (vs. 34) speech is a reflection of the heart. (vs. 35) We are “treasuring up” in our hearts what comes out of our mouths. (vs. 36) We will give account for what we say! (vs. 37) Words can condemn! The Power of the Tongue

3. II. The Tongue Has Power to Influence Others. A. It can be helpful or hurtful (Proverbs 12:18). B. It can be valuable. (Proverbs 10:20; 28:23; Ephesians 4:29; Proverbs 10:20). C. It Can Lead to Salvation. (Proverbs 15:4; Genesis 2:9; 3:22,24; Revelation 2:7, 22:2, 14; Proverbs 15:4; 17:20).

4. III. The Tongue Is A Power That Must Be Controlled. A. It must be “guarded” (Prov. 21:23; 13:3). B. It must be “refrained” (I Peter 3:10). C. It must be “bridled” (James 1:26). 1. A Soft Answer (Proverbs 15:1; Titus 1:13). 2. Gentleness (Prov. 25:15; II Tim. 2:22-24). 3. Kindness (Proverbs 31:26). The Power of the Tongue

5. Proverbs 16:1 “The preparations of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the L ORD ”