We’ve all given, or been on the receiving end of words. Hurtful words stick with us the most. Replaying over and over in our minds. Spreading lies that crush us, ruin relationships and destroy.
I remember our pastor telling us about his little boy. He wanted to play tennis but struggled a lot and did not yet have a natural talent for tennis . He got so frustrated that he would throw down his racket and get impatient and discouraged. His dad kept on encouraging him, and every morning he would tell him, “ I am so proud of you, you are the best tennis player ever!” The boy kept on trying and practising and later he believed the words of his dad. Fast forward 5-7 years and he became an amazing tennis player and even got a tennis scholarship in the US . That is an example of the impact of life—affirming words.
Romans 4:17 tells us that “God … gives life to the dead and calls things into existence that do not exist.” God created the entire cosmos by speaking words into nothingness. In fact, God created people in His image, so we, too, can create with the words we speak.
I believe we all want a good life, whatever “good” means to you. Unfortunately, our words don’t reflect that. If words have power, that means everything you say is shaping your life. You may not feel it or see it the minute you speak it, but those words are planting seeds.
What we speak, think, type, or write has the power to bless or curse, encourage or defeat, build up or tear down. Our words shape thinking, influence actions, and change lives. We need to learn to use our words wisely because words carry great consequences.
I remember a word that was spoken over me when I was young that had a great impact on what I believed. I had a medical condition from infancy and was told by doctors that I was unlikely to live beyond the age of 16, and would not be able to have children. God’s Grace upon Grace is so amazing and the Holy Spirit worked in me. He removed the lies that I believed about myself and He gave me a fiery spirit and personality. When they said I couldn’t, I believed I could because of who God is. I am turning 38 this year and have two beautiful healthy boys! How great is God!?
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)
I want to encourage you to speak. Know for certain that life and death are in the power of your tongue, so speak. Speak words of encouragement, life and hope to those around you. Speak God’s promises over your life. Speak to yourself and remind yourself who you are in Christ. Speak and encourage yourself in the Lord. Speak the Word of God into your situations. Speak to the mountains and challenges in your life and don’t doubt that they will move.
However, in the speaking, remember to put your faith not in the words you speak, because that is not where the power comes from. Put your faith in God who has promised to bring His Word to pass. This is the true source of your power.
Remember that your words should graciously reflect the most important name—the name Jesus Christ.
“Great people are those who can make other people feel they, too, can become great.” Mark Twain