Love Speaks

"Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you." (Ephesians 4:29-32, NLT)

Words carry so much weight with them. So often especially as children we have heard and probably said the words- "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never harm me." This is SOOOOOOOO not true. Words are powerful tools. They can be used for good or for bad. Words can be very damaging. We hear often of people who have suffered from verbal abuse.It is just as damaging if not more than physical abuse.

I remember as a young girl, I liked this boy, everybody did, but someone told him he should date me. I overheard him say to them, no she is too homely. Homely was the word and although I probably was homelier than some, those words stuck with me for years. I already battled low self-esteem, but this just added to it.

We must be careful what we speak, when we speak it, to whom, and how we speak. Words are so powerful! How many people do I know today who are battling with words that have spoken to them as children, teenagers, wives, who are struggling today because of words that someone said to them or about them that has caused much damage.

When we have kind and compassionate words for others it reveals our love for them. I am sure you are like me and have also had people pour loving, healing, encouraging words into your life as well. I tell everyone where I go, I am the person I am today, first of all because of God and His great love to me, but also because of the words my husband, Tommy, has spoken into my life for the past 25 years. Our words can bring healing to someone if we allow them to.

My challenge for you today is to weigh your words before you speak them. Let your prayer be with me, Lord, let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight.