The Power of Our Words

There is a clever childhood phrase that seeks to protect the hearts and spirits of anyone who has ever been made fun of, belittled, or unfairly criticized:

“Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me.”

But, as many have realized, this simply is not true. Words do have the power to harm. Nearly all of us have been hurt or have hurt others by what was spoken. In fact, the Bible says that life and death are in the power of the tongue. Proverbs 18:21 in The Message translation puts it plainly: “Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit—you choose.”


It is easy to observe the power words have in our relationships. We are naturally drawn to people who are positive and encouraging. They seem to nurture and uplift our spirits whenever they speak. Their words literally energize us.
On the other hand, it is challenging, difficult, and even painful to be in the presence of negative and critical individuals. They are physically and emotionally draining. Life and death are truly in the power of the tongue. May we choose to promote life in others through what we say!

"Judas and Silas, who themselves were prophets, said much to encourage and strengthen the brothers." Acts 15:32