FEW BUT POWERFUL WORDS

9/17/2025

“They answered Him, ‘Jesus of Nazareth.’ Jesus said to them, ‘I am He.’ And Judas, who betrayed Him, stood with them. Now when He said to them, ‘I am He,’ they drew back and fell to the ground” (John 18:5-6).

Wisdom teaches us not only what to say but when to say it. True intelligence isn’t displayed by the abundance of words but by knowing when to keep silent. Scripture says, “Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent” (Proverbs 18:2).

At His arrest, Jesus didn’t engage in long arguments. He simply declared, “I am He,” and power flowed so mightily that the soldiers fell to the ground. Just three words carried divine authority! Yet many believers assume that endless talking—whether in conversation or prayer—proves effectiveness. The devil is a liar.

When we talk too much, three dangers arise:

1. We stop listening.

Many approach prayer with babbling and arguments, thinking God will hear because of their many words. But Jesus said, “Do not keep on babbling like pagans… for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him” (Matthew 6:7-8). Prayer is meant for fellowship, not showmanship.

2. We invite sin and destruction.

Proverbs 10:19 warns, “Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.” David prayed, “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips” (Psalm 141:3). Words can either preserve or destroy.

3. We show a lack of self-control.

James 1:19 urges us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” Not every thought needs to be voiced. Once words leave your mouth, they cannot be taken back. Proverbs 29:20 says, “There is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks without thinking.”

Consider Balaam’s donkey. She bore the weight of her master, shielded him from danger, and remained silent until the Lord opened her mouth (Numbers 22:28). She didn’t speak out of turn or prematurely announce what she had seen. Sadly, many today would rather rush to platforms and social media to broadcast spiritual encounters instead of waiting in prayer.

Even Jesus testified, “I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken” (John 12:49). Paul echoed the same truth: “My speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power” (1 Corinthians 2:4).

The true power of words is not in their quantity but in the authority backing them. When we speak God’s words, we see God’s results.

Faith-Filled Confession:

I receive the wisdom of the Spirit today. My words are few but filled with power. I set a guard over my lips and speak only what the Lord commands. My speech is filtered through His Word, and my results are backed by His authority. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayer Point

1. Safety and wellbeing of children under 16

2. Increase grace for church growth - Zac 8:23

3. Manifestation of God’s power and presence