The Winning Heart: 7 Heart Expressions to Become a Winner on the Field and in LifeSample

Heart Expression Four: Words

Coaches hold the most crucial role in sports as they have the power to shape an athlete's character more than anyone else. When athletes remember their coaches, it's often the words they recall the most - the catchphrases, speeches, and instructions that stuck with them. Most importantly, an athlete remembers how these words made them feel—the encouraging words that lifted their spirits and the critical words that hurt their confidence.

Every word you hear and say has the power to impact your heart and affect the people around you. Solomon, often considered the wisest man to ever live, says in Proverbs 18:21:

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

Our words act like an arrow shot directly to the heart. They carry the power to bring life or death to any heart who hears them. This is a big responsibility. Controlling every word we say can feel overwhelming. Solomon offers good news. We CAN have self-control over our words. When we choose the right words, we can bring life. When we use life-giving words, Solomon says it produces fruit. Your words can have a positive impact, whether it's boosting a colleague's confidence, encouraging your children to succeed, or connecting with your spouse or loved one on a personal level.

The Winning Heart speaks life-giving words to encourage everyone’s hearts on and off the field. The words you say today are the best way for you and others to hear God’s love. Notice the words you say during a game, at home, to your spouse, kids, and coworkers. Strive to say words that will share God’s love and encourage others to be at their best today. Your words will make a difference in a person's day.

Take a moment and say these words out loud as an encouragement today:

For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love, He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will—to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the One He loves. (Ephesians 1:4-6)

God loves you. God cares about you. Live today experiencing God’s love and acceptance because of Jesus.

Final Thoughts:

Who is someone that says nice words to you?

What do they say that makes you feel good about yourself?

What word do you need to hear from God today?

Who is someone you know who needs to hear a life-giving word from you?