Today’s Post By: Rae Lynn DeAngelis

“The words of the reckless pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” (Proverbs 12:18)

It was time to replace our hot water heater, along with some other plumbing fixtures in the house. Mineral deposits had built up over time, causing damage to our pipes, faucets, fixtures, and appliances.  Because of the scale build up, water was restricted from flowing freely. The shower nozzle also became clogged. As a result, the pressurized flow of water actually stung when it hit our skin. Two water heaters in seven years revealed a serious problem. It was time to invest in a water softener system.

After the softener was installed, the scale deposits began to break away, allowing the flow to pour through unrestricted.  The water felt “soft” in more ways than one—gentle and soothing.

Life can be hard, leaving its dirty residue behind. Bitterness, anger, resentment, and stress can build up, creating pressure inside. Before we know it, words spew from our mouths and sting others, inflicting pain and heartache where ever they fall.

“For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45b)

When stress builds and pressure releases, it’s difficult to keep the overflow from affecting those around us.

“They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim cruel words like deadly arrows.” (Psalm 64:3)

Like a water softener system, daily time spent with God in His Word cleans away the gunk from our system. God removes the ugly residue in our hearts, making us purified vessels through whom His living water flows.

“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” (Proverbs 16:24)

“Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within him.” (John 7:38)