Whoever said “sticks and stones may break your bones but words never will”, lied! Words have the profound power to make or break a person. Words are like a chisel in the hands of a sculptor. They have the ability to alter a life in radical ways.
As you scan through your own life you will see the impact words have had upon you. Perhaps you are who you are today because of someone’s words. Word can shape destinies.
Paul says this in Ephesians, “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouth except what is useful for building others up according to their needs that it may benefit those who listen.” Perhaps we can build others up with our words when we start thinking before we speak, instead of just blurting out whatever comes to our minds.
The Proverbs tell us that a word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. What a beautiful picture about words. Words must be aesthetically pleasing and they must have the power to noursish instead of malnourishing.
Take a moment to think about how you use words. Did you know the words, “I love you” can have a profound impact on someone who feels unloved. When last did you tell those closest to you that you love them? When last did you affirm a stranger with words that communicate affection? When last did you affirm a child’s dream by telling her you have confidence in her?
If you have been using words to destroy, begin today by using them to construct. Use your words to shape the destiny of those you come in contact with and when you do you’ll see their eyes light up with hope.
Try it, it works!
