The Power of Words

‘Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.’ Proverbs 15:4

‘Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.’ Right? The Bible suggests otherwise. Words have so much influence. They can build up or tear down, inspire or discourage; heal or hurt.

Words have the power to shape people’s entire lives: how they act, what they choose to do and, most importantly, what they think about themselves. So, let’s check that our words are not tearing down, spreading rumours or damaging others. 

The good news is, negative words are always superseded by God’s truth. God’s words are positive and life-giving: words that encourage, strengthen our faith and keep us going. Any words of condemnation, guilt or negativity don’t come from God. If we’ve experienced the power of negative words, we are more able to value the power of positive words. And we’re in a good place to share God’s life-giving words with those who need to hear them most.

So where to from here? Well I think it is perfectly summed up in this sentiment from the Apostle Paul: ‘Don’t say anything that would hurt another person. Instead, speak only what is good so that you can give help wherever it is needed’ (Ephesians 4:29). 

Isaac Williams
Assistant Chaplain – Wyvern House