The Power of Our Words

Constantly throughout scripture, Jesus is reminding us that our words hold immense power. They have the ability to shape our realities, influence our thoughts, and impact our relationships. The scripture reminds us that there is power in our tongue - the power to speak life or death. Proverbs 18:21, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits." Our words can either build up or tear down, create hope or despair, spread joy, or sow discontent. Yet, often, we find ourselves falling into the trap of negativity, of complaining, and criticizing, unaware of the damage it inflicts on ourselves and others.

I am going to be honest; I have been feeling so overwhelmed lately and because of that I have been grumbling and incredibly negative. Lately, I find myself grappling with a sense of overwhelming pressure that seems to permeate every aspect of my daily life. The weight of numerous responsibilities bears down on me, casting a shadow of doubt over my capabilities and leaving me questioning whether I am truly equipped for what God has called me to do. This persistent feeling of being weighed down has become a constant companion, fueling a cycle of frustration and negativity that I struggle to break free from. It seems as though every day brings a new challenge, each one more daunting than the last, leaving me feeling as though I am constantly teetering on the edge of my breaking point. The weight of these burdens feels crushing at times, making it difficult to see beyond the haze of doubt and frustration that clouds my mind. And all the while I continue to speak death instead of life into myself by the things that I say and the tone of my words. However, scripture serves as a reminder that I will ultimately have to give an account of the things that I say. Matthew 12:36 says, "I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak."

Words are not mere sounds that pass through our lips; they carry energy, intention, and consequence. When we complain, we are not just venting our frustrations; we are actually reinforcing negative thoughts and emotions within ourselves. Negative words have a way of taking root in our minds, shaping our beliefs, and ultimately influencing our actions. It's time to break free from the cycle of complaining and start speaking life into ourselves. Instead of focusing on what's wrong, let's shift our attention to what's right. Let's practice thankfulness, celebrate our achievements, and acknowledge our strengths. Speaking positively about ourselves not only enhances our self-esteem but also helps us develop a mindset of abundance and gratitude towards our Creator.

Next time you catch yourself about to complain, pause and reframe your words. Instead of saying, "I can't do this," try saying, "I can't do this without you, God. Thank you for calling me to something greater than I can see." By consciously choosing to speak life into yourself, you empower yourself to overcome challenges, embrace opportunities, and live a more fulfilling life. Proverbs 16:24 tells us, "Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body."

Our words not only affect ourselves but also those around us. When we complain incessantly, we spread negativity like a virus, infecting others with our discontent. Our words have the power to uplift or demoralize, to encourage or discourage. By speaking life into others, we become sources of inspiration, motivation, and positivity. Imagine the difference it would make if instead of criticizing, we offered words of encouragement and support. A simple compliment, a kind word, or a gesture of appreciation has the power to brighten someone's day, boost their confidence, and strengthen your relationship with them.

Let's choose our words wisely, with the intention of building up rather than tearing down. Every word we speak has the potential to create ripples of change, to uplift spirits, and to bring hope to those around us. As we become more mindful of the power of our words, let's strive to be sources of light and positivity in a world that often feels dark and discouraging. Let's be intentional about speaking life, not only into ourselves but into the lives of others. Together, we can create a chain reaction of positivity that transforms hearts, minds, and realities.

The power of words is both a privilege and a responsibility. Let's embrace this power mindfully, recognizing the impact our words have on ourselves and others. By speaking life, we not only transform our own lives but also contribute to creating a more positive and compassionate world.

Let's speak Jesus' light.