Our Words Do Matter

Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.
Proverbs 12:18 NLT

I’ve chosen a verse for my devotion this week that cuts right to my heart. I used to be guilty of cutting words or sarcastic ones to the point that I thought it was a spiritual gift. I somehow had gotten so lazy in my speech that I used to speak so sarcastically to people that I didn’t even notice.

But that was when God got a hold of me and gently nudged me and reminded me that I need to build people up with my words, not talk in code using sarcastic phrases like, “must be nice” when referring to someone’s good fortunes or “high ya stranger” which is code for “why haven’t you called recently?”

Besides the Book of James in the New Testament which we’re studying in church, there is a great book in the Old Testament called Proverbs which speaks volumes about the words we use. The Proverbs warn us about the destruction our words can cause if we talk too much or we lye or we gossip.

I can’t think of anything that has gotten me in more trouble over the years with my wife or my kids than by the misuse of my words. “Actions may speak louder than words” is a saying that may be true to our faith, but when it comes to how we treat people, I think our words can speak pretty loudly as well. I could spend a whole day of doing good deeds for my wife, but saying something stupid or insensitive to her will wipe those achievements away real fast.

However, there is good news. The flip side to this verse is our words can produce great results. They can bring about healing. The Proverbs equate our good words to wisdom and sweet sounds to the ears. “Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” Proverbs 16:24

What kind of words are you using? What comes out in the heat of the moment? Are they cutting or sarcastic that are meant to tear down or do you use words that encourage and pick people up at a moment when they need it most? I have been so blessed that God always sends people to pick me up (especially Judy) when I need it most and He has asked me to try and do the same.

I encourage you to look for ways to build people up with your words this week and watch for the results. Start at home with your spouse and then work your way through your kids and then see if it can spread to your neighborhood and workplace. I don’t mean that you need to give false praise that sounds phony, but if something that the person you’re speaking to deserves kudos, then give to him or her. And look and note the reaction and look for the resulting change in your relationship with that person.

I look forward to hearing your stories.