Wonderful Words
We all know that words are powerful, and when used as weapons they can cause great harm. Thankfully, when used well, words can be a source of wonderful encouragement. It has been said that some words hurt and some words heal. I want to fill my life with words that heal. While we no doubt can recall harsh words that were spoken to us and about us, we can also remember the sincere kindness and encouragement that others have shared with us. Mark Twain put it well when he said, “I can live two months on a good compliment!” As we strive together to grow deep in our faith and wide in our influence, it is good to remember the power of our words!
Jesus modeled beautifully the power of well-spoken words. Do you remember His unexpected words on the cross? Even while being mocked and insulted, He spoke of gracious forgiveness, and shared hope with the dying man beside Him. Jesus taught us through His actions that we can learn to season our conversations with salt. (Col 4:2-6) We can help others desire to hear more about what we have to say. Remember that “gospel” literally means “good news.” It is through meaningful words that we will share the good news of the sacrificial love of Jesus.
I believe that through our words we can have an irresistible influence for good on those around us. When our words are filled with the evidence of God’s Spirit, they will be filled with “...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Gal 5:22-23) In our bitter and suffering world, those types of words are impossible to ignore. In the book of Proverbs, Solomon has a lot to say about the power of words. Here are a few of my favorites:
Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. (Proverbs 16:24 ESV)
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver. (Proverbs 25:11 ESV)
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. (Proverbs 18:21 ESV)
How do you use words? What do they say about your heart? What do your words say about your feelings toward others? How can our words help us grow in our desire to have a positive impact on those around us?
Once again, I join David in his wonderful words in Psalm 141:3, “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!” May we be a church that is known for using words that heal!
Expectantly,
Shawn
P.S. Tomorrow, May 2, is the National Day of Prayer. We invite you to join our church family this evening at 7:00pm for a special prayer gathering. Leaders in our community have arranged a Brunswick-wide prayer gathering tomorrow morning at the Brunswick City Hall flagpole at 10:00am.
P.P.S. Please join us in praying for the families of Dan and Claudia Caudill on the passing of Dan's mother, Vivian Caudill. You can read her obituary here.
