Tongue Pierced With Nelson SearcySample

“Three Truths About Words”

To start changing things for the better, we first need to recognize three essential truths about the nature of words. If we can begin to work these truths into our thinking, they will help us steer away from words that bring death and toward words that create life.

1. Words are a gift from God
The ability to use words at all is a gift that has been given to all us by our Creator. As such, we have a responsibility to use our words well. As we've seen, God was the first one to harness the creative force of words;and he has entrusted us with the same ability to use words to create the world around us. Given the substantial nature of this gift, we can't just throw our words around any old way we please; they contain too much power. The only acceptable response to the gift we’ve been given is to show respect to the Giver by using it well.

2. Words can build up or tear down
As a kid, you probably chanted the phrase “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” I know I did. With a little age and experience, we come to realize that even though it sounds good in theory, the phrase is just plain wrong. Words can hurt. I bet you don’t have any problem remembering the last harsh words that were spoken to you or the last encouraging words you received. Other people’s words can have an incredible impact on us, whether we want them to or not. They have the ability to create the atmosphere of our lives. They also have the ability to create atmosphere for others.

3. The quality of your life is determined by the quality of your words
The way you choose to communicate will ultimately affect every area of your life. Words aren’t neutral. Every word that goes out has a consequence attached to it. How you speak to your friends, family members, and coworkers will determine the quality of those relationships. Your internal dialogue with yourself will determine the quality of your actions and interactions each day. It naturally follows that the quality of your life is determined by the words you speak.

* Have you ever thought about the power of words in this manner? Why or why not?