Power of Words

Have you ever caught yourself repeating the words of your mother? I recently told my six year old daughter, “Sticks and stones will break your bones, but words will never hurt you.” This is a quote my mother often sang to her very sensitive daughter, who happens to be me. I know she meant well in sharing this, but I can’t understand why I would repeat such absurdity to my own daughter knowing it isn’t true.

Words do hurt. They can literally change a person’s attitude for better or worse. There are several negative things I can remember hearing throughout my life which have had a profound effect on how I feel about myself and my abilities. Those words were often spoken to me in haste or without thought. Many times the words were not even necessarily true. On a positive note, there are many more affirmative words I’ve heard as well.

Words that told me who I am in Christ, and words that brought forth beauty and confidence. I have also been given words that tell me of a God who loves me with an everlasting love. These words weren’t always spoken to me by man or woman. They were often given to me through the Holy Spirit by reading my Bible.

God has also spoken words of encouragement through my husband, my family and my friends. A kind word spoken at the right time has actually caused my heart to leap, or at least feel like it’s leaping. Sometimes it will be a note of encouragement, a sweet phone call, or even a beautifully written email. I don’t know about you, but I want to be someone who gives joy and praise through my words.

If you have an ability to encourage someone with a kind spoken gesture, please do so. You have no idea how much it may mean, or what lasting effect it may have on them.

Memory Verse:
“Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act.”
-Proverbs 3:27 (NIV)

Prayer Prompt:
“Lord, I want to thank You and praise You for Your written words in the Bible. These words guide us to understanding who You are and who You created each of us to be. Help me today to embrace the life-giving power of words. Allow me to pass on my Christian faith through my words as I speak to my family, my friends and my other relationships. I want to specifically encourage…”

Contributing Writer:
Susie Mozisek