(by pastor Jean)

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Prov 18:21; MEV). The author of this verse is attributing great power to this very small part of our bodies. (See also James 3:5). Speaking negative circumstances as we see, hear or feel them can lead to death so we need to speak God’s word over these circumstances in order to bring life because God’s word is life, it is God-breathed (Jn 6:63, 2Tim 3:16). If we speak God’s word in faith, it has the power to change our negative circumstances, for example, “Whoever says to this mountain, be removed and be thrown into the sea, and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says shall come to pass, he will have whatever he says” (Mark 11:23; MEV). (Notice the verb, “say” is in that verse 3 times! The Bible says that “The word of God will not return to Me void” (Isa 55:11; NKJV), that being the case we need to speak it, just like Jesus did (John 3:34). If you need peace declare that God’s peace will guard your heart and mind (Phil 4:7), if you need healing, confess that “By His stripes you were healed” (1 Peter 2:24), if you are broke, then shout that God will meet all your need (Phil 4:19). Immerse yourself in the promises of God concerning your situation so that your mind becomes renewed (Rom 12:2) and then your thinking and your speech will become lined up with God’s word. Start thanking God for the victory before you even see it. This is what Jesus did when He commanded Lazarus to come out of the tomb, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me” (John 11:41b; MEV). One more thing-don’t give up, keep on keeping on!!