Every word we speak is a choice; every choice bears fruit. As Christians, our focused desire is to speak empowering words that consistently reap godly results.
“The tongue can bring death or life;
those who love to talk will reap the consequences.”
Proverbs 18:21
As Light as Feather
Long ago, a man was mentoring someone who was struggling to control his words. He took his student to the top of a tall tower and instructed him to rip open the feather pillow he had brought along. As directed the student held the pillow over the side of the tower, releasing its contents to the wind.
“Now gather the feathers” instructed the older gentleman.
Together they descended the many flights of stairs to ground level. The mentor patiently watched and waited. The younger man returned clutching ten fragile feathers in his hand. All the rest had drifted beyond sight in the gentle breeze.
Once spoken words dissipate beyond return. Some words as delicate and beautiful as feathers lifting and encouraging. Other words land like lead weight on an already wounded heart.
Words that Build
There have been numerous times in my life when people have spoken words of encouragement and built me up:
“You can…”
“I know you have the ability…”
“You did that so well…”
“I love you…”
Most of these words came at a time when I felt I couldn’t, or I didn’t have what it takes for a task ahead. Sometimes, they came at a moment of complete failure. Their words were wings of grace that lifted and empowered me to continue and risk again.
Moses spoke words of affirmation over Joshua many times:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous.
Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged,
for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9
I cannot imagine what it would feel like to take over the leadership from someone like Moses! How overwhelming!
These words would echo in Joshua’s heart repeatedly as he led millions into their promise. Moses’ confidence in him and spoken affirmation were God given!
We all face situations that seem beyond our ability. Every word of affirmation makes a difference in validating and propelling us forward.
My husband and I are amazed at how many young people consistently include us in their circle of friendship. Perhaps it is, in part at least, because we enjoy encouraging and inspiring them to greater and better things.
This is itself is a miracle! Neither of us were always that way! As a matter of fact, we have both received a large share of hurting and condemning words. We have both had to work hard at removing anger, critical judgments and condemning attitudes from out thinking and vocabulary.
Words that Teach
“In my former book, Theophilus,
I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach.”
Acts 1:1
Through the gospels, the words of Jesus continue to impact hearts and lives worldwide. His words were always life giving!
How many or how few, of our words are spoken with intentionality of having generational influence?
There is a relatively new medium called Spoken Word Poetry that has become a powerful voice of this generation. Through poetic verse the truth of redeeming love and breakthrough declares faith in Jesus Christ.
Each of us has the ability to use speak in such a way as to
empower, motivate to action,
lead others to encounter to Christ,
bring healing and hope
empathize and sympathize
elevate and inspire.
Spoken, written or sung, words have the power to ignite destiny and purpose in hearts.
Jesus, The Word
“In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
John 1:1
The greatest Word is the Person of Jesus Christ! The Word came. He spoke audibly and visibly! The most important words we can speak are from The Word! They contain life beyond earth’s reach – words that give life eternal.
“That which was from the beginning,
which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes,
which we have looked at and our hands have touched—
this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.”
I John 1:1
Some of the most powerful words we could speak may easily be our testimony about what Jesus has done in our lives! What a privilege we have to tell of the things we have seen, heard and experienced. Actually, the gospels are literally testimony by four men who witnessed The Word.
What has your faith meant to you? What has Christ done in your life? Have you experienced His peace or strength in difficult times? Have you witnessed a miracle? Let your voice be heard! Testify to what you have experienced! Pass on the personal experience to your children and grandchildren! Share with your friends and those in your workplace how loving and amazing God is!
While they may seem insignificant, your words could be exactly what God uses to build faith in others.
“Return to your house and describe what great things God has done for you.”
So he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city
what great things Jesus had done for him.”
Luke 8:39
God has chosen the most unlikely candidates to be his witnesses: a Samaritan woman, a once demonic, murderers, thieves, and lepers. People from the highest and lowest levels of society. Our testimony of Jesus is never about us, always about Him.
A Challenge
Since the words of my mouth have not always been pure and loving, encouraging and supportive, radiating the goodness of God, this is a constant work of progress in me. Therefore, through my writing I challenge myself, may you also be encouraged.
Join me in speaking words that lift and empower! Who will you, or I, impact today with a word of life? God only knows.
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Here is more on relationships – My Call to Action – Living and Communing Authentic Relationships