The Power of Words from Your Lips

The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit - Proverbs 18:21

My children grew up with their father (er...moi) telling them on a more regular basis than probably what was called for that, "God spoke worlds into existence and what He said brought things without life to life by what He said. Always remember what you say has the power of life and death in it. What you say is either life or it is death and that depends on the source. Use wisdom when speaking."

Words have the power to motivate or destroy, energize or deflate, inspire and create or shroud a moment in utter despair. Many successful business types, doctors, pastors and entrepreneurs can remember the time their own dads succeeded or failed to provide them with affirmation. The result was either over achievement to prove their worth, or underachievement to validate that yes, in fact, dad was correct in his assessment of me.

Many a spouse has given up on their ability to love because of a critical partner. Husbands have left marriages because words of disrespect and ungratefulness finally hit their targets too deeply.

We have all heard numerous stories regarding the power of words. There are just as many stories of those who have been encouraged, challenged, and comforted with words that made a difference in their lives. My first suggestion is that you feed on those powerful affirming stories.

Jesus, the one the Apostle John called "The Word" epitomized understanding concerning the power of words. He used parables to convey His principles of the Kingdom of God. He used words of forgiveness and mercy. He used words to challenge. He used words to inspire His disciples to miraculous faith.

He used words to shock the self-righteous into more deeply understanding what God truly valued.

Do your words give life? Do they inspire and challenge others to greatness? Who does God want you to encourage through your words today?

With me, today, commit to being an inspiration to those you meet. Affirm someone close to you today. Let's be lovers of those Jesus loved and lets empower those around us. Our words can do just that. I remain...

InHISgrip,
~J~