I love words.
I love to read words. I love to write words. As an English teacher, I taught words, defined words, and graded words.
We all use words to inform, to persuade, to entertain. They make us think. They help us understand. It’s how we communicate.
Our words can offer inspiration, show love, express gratitude, and provide support. When we hear or read positive words, we feel encouraged, valued, respected, appreciated. They make us laugh and smile and feel good.
The spoken word is important. The written word is powerful.
We hear words, and they stay with us. We read words and want to react.
Although there are many words that are valuable to us, there are also words that hurt. They can tear us down, make us mad, offend us. They can cause shame, fear, and confusion.
Sometimes we aren’t careful with our words. We say words that we don’t really mean or write words that are taken the wrong way. But, when those words are intentional and clearly directed at us, the power they carry can be overwhelming.
Maybe we think we are justified in the words that we choose to use in our defense.
Maybe we want to be right and believe those who don’t agree deserve the harsh words.
Maybe we are suffering and want others to feel the pain as well.
We get so caught up with what we want to say that we don’t stop and think about what others are actually hearing.
We are reminded of “sticks and stones.”
We tell ourselves that “hurt people hurt people.”
We try to reassure ourselves with “they didn’t really mean it.”
There are times we let the words roll off as easily as we roll our eyes. Then, there are other times when the words land on a scar or feel like a punch to the gut or a stab in the back.
And the words stay stuck. In our minds. In our hearts. We replay those words, wondering why and if they are true, even if they aren’t.
If you are wrestling with words today, here are a few reminders that might bring you a little peace.
- Think about the power your words hold. Be careful with the words you speak. Not only should they be gentle and considerate, but they should glorify God as well. Be grateful for those who speak truth and thoughtful words to you and build you up. A kind word goes a long way.
“The heart of the wise has power over his mouth and adds learning to his lips. Pleasing words are like honey. They are sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Proverbs 16:23-24
2. Consider forgiving those who use words against you. This is not always easy to do but is necessary for growing your faith and strengthening your walk with the Lord, not to mention the relationship at stake. As hard as this is when the words are wedged in your thoughts, this is what God instructs us to do. We will find peace in Him when we follow His command.
“Try to understand other people. Forgive each other. If you have something against someone, forgive him. That is the way the Lord forgave you.” Colossians 3:13
3. When others’ words are causing your heart to ache, know that God is near. He will not abandon you or your feelings. Those you love may disappoint you or harm you with their words, but God gives comfort to the broken-hearted. You can rest on His everlasting love and know above else that you are His. He is good, so good.
“The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth. He will fill the desire of those who fear Him. He will also hear their cry and will save them.” Psalm 145:18-19
I pray all your words today will be a blessing.
“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14