The Joy of the Journey
The Power of Words
The phrase “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” often teaches children to ignore hurtful words and not let them affect their self-esteem. However, there has never been a more untruthful phrase. Broken bones can heal, but hurtful words can remain in our minds and thoughts for years, sometimes a lifetime. It is my desire to dive into the thought of how powerful our words are, that through words, we can build up or tear down an individual and even ourselves. Christ expects us to use our words to glorify His name. He wants us to use our words to build up one another, not tear each other down.
Throughout the Bible, we see the importance of using our words to build one another up and encourage each other in our walk with God. The impact of our words can be profound, and they have the power to uplift and strengthen those around us. Let us explore the scriptures to understand how to use our words to edify, encourage, and support our one another.
Proverbs 12:25 says, “Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” Our words can lift the spirits of those burdened with worry or anxiety. By speaking kindness and encouragement, we can bring joy and gladness to others, helping them find peace in the midst of their troubles.
Ephesians 4:29 reminds us, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Our speech should always be marked by grace and kindness, aiming to edify and encourage those who listen. Instead of tearing others down with our words, let us strive to build them up and impart grace through our speech.
Hebrews 3:13 exhorts us to “but exhort one another every day, as long as it is called ‘today,’ that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.” Regular encouragement within the community is essential to prevent the hardening of hearts due to sin. Our words of encouragement can serve as a reminder of God’s love and grace, keeping us grounded in faith and accountable to one another.
The Word of God should guide our speech and interactions with one another, serving as a source of wisdom and encouragement. We can build each other up in faith and gratitude towards Godthrough teaching, admonishing, and worshiping. 1Thessalonians 5:11 urges us to “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” Encouragement should be a continual practice among believersin Christ as we strive to uplift and support one another in our walk with Christ. By building each other up through our words, we strengthen the bonds of fellowship and foster a spirit of unity within the body of Christ.
James 3:9-10 cautions us, “With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things oIt doesn’t take a lot of effort to tear down people with our words, but it does take intentionality to build one another up. I like it nought not to be so.” Our words have the power to bless or curse others, and it is crucial to guard our speech and use it for uplifting purposes. Our words should always reflect the love and grace of God, honoring the inherent value and dignity of every individual.
In conclusion, the Bible is filled with verses emphasizing the importance of using our words to build one another up. As Christians, we are called to encourage, exhort, and support one another through our speech, fostering a community of love, grace, and unity. We must be mindful of the impact of our words and strive to use them to uplift and strengthen our brothers and sisters in Christ and all those we come in contact with, bringing glory to God through our words. It doesn’t take a lot of effort to tear down people with our words, but it does take intentionality to build one another up. I like it no
