“Learn to say kind words; nobody resents them.” ~ Unknown
We have all grown up hearing the rhyme, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.” Unfortunately, these words are not valid. Our words matter and they matter a lot. One of the more hazardous and deadly members of the human body is the tongue. People’s lives are altered every day because of the words spoken to them. With only a few words, you can change someone’s life forever, for better or for worse.
Reflect on your own life for a moment; how deeply have the words, comments, and opinions of others affected you over your lifetime? Now reverse the reflection; how have your words, comments, and views affected others? It’s frightening how powerful words can be.
Choose your words carefully. Ask yourself questions like these before you open your mouth. Will my words build this person up or tear this person down? Will my words bring this person or situation closer to God or further away? Are my words even necessary, or do I enjoy hearing myself talk? Would everybody be better off if I refrained from the temptation to respond with my tongue, pen, keyboard, keypad, etc.?
The love commandment is a great commandment to live by because there are no victims, and there is no defense against the power of love. When you share kind words, you are sharing love. A simple “hello,” “good morning,” a timely compliment, or expressions of affirmation go a long way in brightening somebody else’s day. Words that don’t leave marks must always be the objective for which you strive. Who needs to hear some kind words from you today? Be intentional today with every word that comes out of your mouth. Go out of your way to bless somebody with your words and actions today. You will be blessed, and so will they.
God of love and words, thank You for the ability to speak and for the ability to express love. I have shared many words throughout my life with the motive to hurt others; please forgive me. Would you please grant me the willingness to reconcile with those who my wicked tongue has hurt? Today, I commit to refrain from sharing my words, comments, and opinions when used to divide our society ever deeper, drive a wedge between me and others, or cause harm to anyone anywhere. Allow Your words and ways to become my words and practices from this moment forward. In Your Spirit and Name, I pray these things. May your will not mine always materialize, now and forever. Amen.
Photo by Christin Hume on Unsplash
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