The Power of Words

God has recently been teaching me the power of words. Although it seems quite odd, words can make a huge impact on a person's life. Words can be used to teach, uplift, and encourage. Words can be used to spread gossip and lies, stir up anger, or leave a emotional scar. The book of Proverbs says much about the power of words.

 "Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." 

Proverbs 16:24

 "A man finds joy in giving an apt reply- and how good is a timely word!" 

Proverbs 15:23

"Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise bring healing." 

Proverbs 12:18

"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." 

Proverbs 15:1 

"The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit." 

Proverbs 15:5

"A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends."

Proverbs 16:28

"The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit."

Proverbs 18:21

"He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity."

Proverbs 21:23

"An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips."

Proverbs 24:26

I have often found that- even not consciously- we are very stingy with our compliments, and very generous with our criticism. This. is. so. wrong. Why do we do it? Our insecurities- if we make them look good, then maybe we won't look as good! I really found this to be shocking- we don't encourage others because we. are. too. concerned. with. ourselves. Really? It seems so childish when you think about it- we're too focused on being in the spotlight to let anyone else take a little bit of the applause.

A simple note or comment on how you appreciate someone- is huge- it can just be the one thing that makes their day. It can be the note they treasure. forever. It can be the one thing that had a huge impact on their lives.

How are you going to use your words today?