Pastor's Corner: The power of words

Have you ever considered the power of words? Of course, you have if only subconsciously. Our lives are shaped, molded, directed and designed by words, phrases and directives, aren’t they? Sometimes those words are uttered in love, harmony and peace, yet at other times in anger, discord and frustration. How, when and in what setting they are given lends to the power and lasting effects for which they arrive and stay.

I do not know about you, but my mother encouraged us as children with the age old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Whoever first penned that was well meaning for sure but missed the truth of life of life by miles for most of us. There are those blessed souls who can allow negative hurtful words just roll off as water off a ducks back; however, for most of us those words stick like super glue to the walls of our souls, don’t they?

All of us whether we are parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches, preachers and just friends would do well to remember the words of Napoleon Hill, author of the renowned best seller “Think and Grow Rich,” who says, “Think twice before you speak, because your words and influence will plant the seed of either success or failure in the mind of another.” Also King Solomon it the Book of Wisdom exhorts, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.” Prov. 18:21

Think for a moment of the words and phrases that motivate and empower you. Phrases like “I love you” spoken by our spouses, family, and friends… how about the phrase “I believe in you,” or the simple statement “You can do it.” I know your mind is flooded by similar thoughts and encouragements that have been uttered to you in so many ways over the years by those that have been your mentor, coach or friend. As you think of those who have encouraged you by words, say a prayer for them and if you can how about a call just to say “thanks” for being you.

Yes, words motivate and encourage, but some can stop you in your tacks, snap you up and even attempt to put fear in your heart and soul… words like I heard just a few short weeks ago, “you have cancer”… many reading this have heard those words or similar, and only if you have been the recipient of such do you understand their power and magnitude. But we know they do not have the final authority over the subject.

But you know what is more powerful than those words, words that echo through my soul this morning; it is the words of family and friends who confidently speak to me “you’ve got this thing”, “we love you,” and “we are praying for you and your family”… And most important is the still small voice of God who says to me often, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5

Go forward this week with a blessing on your tongue as you talk to the many people God will place in your path knowing that “Death and life is in the power of your tongue…” Use it well speaking healing, health and blessings.

Have a great week.