Words
“You is kind. You is smart. You is important.”
- Aibileen from The Help
I think we forget how much our words can impact those around us. Words have the unique ability to tear down or build up, discourage or affirm, bring people to tears or make them laugh, predispose toward good or evil, instill in others a strong sense of self-worth or one of worthlessness. Proverbs 12:18 says “Thoughtless words can wound as deeply as any sword, but wisely spoken words can heal.” Matthew 12:37 says “Your words will be used to judge you—to declare you either innocent or guilty.” These are sobering thoughts. I tend to say things before I think about the effect my words will have. And often I say things I don’t necessarily mean, but I don’t bother to make sure the other person realizes that. I purpose to stop and think about my words and examine my motives before I let the words leave my mouth. I want to speak life, not death, into those around me.
