Anyone can be an orange blossom blessing.
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Ephesians 4: 29
Every year the citrus groves in Florida waft the sweet aroma of their blossoms, spreading their scent for many miles. I like to think heaven smells just like orange blossoms. As a young teen, I’d pick and vend assorted citrus from our family’s dozen trees for extra income.
It didn’t take long to learn I had to watch for mold growing on the outside of the fruit. If the effected fruit was not quickly removed from the bushel, the entire basketful would rot. The mold spreads very quickly, infecting and corrupting the fruit it is close to. The same is true of the words we speak. Others are influenced by what comes out of our mouths. Either good or bad.
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21
Cursing and foul language acts just like citrus mold, spreading out to corrupt others by its rottenness. Criticism and harsh judgment tears people down. Yet, the tongue of the wise, will speak comfort, healing and encouragement. Like the heavenly aroma of orange blossoms, sweetly going forth to build up the good in everyone.
The bible warns us not to speak any corrupting words that will contaminate ourselves and those who are near. One can either be on the devil’s demolition squad, tearing people down, or on God’s construction crew, building them up.
Father, I praise you for your wisdom. Help me to think before I speak. And guard my tongue from saying anything that does not honor you. I want to speak blessings and not curses—beauty rather than ugliness. And praises instead of criticism. Thank you Lord. I ask these things in Jesus’ name, amen.
See what James 3:1-12 has to say about the power of the tongue. Here’s hoping you have a productive day. Spread sunshine wherever you go. You’ll be surprised by how contagious it can be. ☺♥
Spirit Writer 