The Power of Words
Carol reminds us of the power of words, telling the story of how she experienced forgiveness from one family member and hurt from another.
The Power of Words
I often speak or write about the power of words. Words have the power to build up or tear down. What kinds of encouraging words can you remember someone speaking into your life and how did it make you feel? Stories can help people remember a point and they are a powerful teaching tool. Spreading incorrect stories, gossip and lies, all of which will also be remembered, can tear down someone. Have you ever had someone tell you something and those words hurt, not because they were a necessary instruction or rebuke but just hurtful in tone and words too?
I love to hear encouraging words, words of affirmation, and even stories that inform, inspire, or entertain. I have had many instances of these throughout my life for which I am grateful. But there are also times I think about words that hurt and those hurts stayed and festered in my heart and mind for a long time.
Asking For Forgiveness
Years ago, I needed to ask forgiveness from some family members. I had disappointed them and my actions caused them sadness and maybe some hurt feelings as well. Being honest and asking forgiveness wasn’t easy even when I realized how necessary it was for all of us.
My grandfather wrote a letter in response, well he dictated it for my aunt to scribe for him. His forgiveness and words of compassion and love spread over me, encouraged me, and made me feel loved by him. The same aunt also wrote her own response filled with condemnation, rebuke, and no compassion. Two people responding to the same request for forgiveness. Two people who both had given their lives to God by accepting Jesus. Two people who professed to live godly lives. Yet their responses so far apart. One built me up and the other tore me apart. It took much more time for the aunt to offer forgiveness even when she never apologized for or maybe even realized, the impact of her words. It remains a lesson to me.
Forgive One Another
The Bible tells us we are to forgive one another. Colossians 3: 13 says,
“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Forgiveness isn’t an option but a command.
The Bible also tells us what our words should be like.
Eph. 4: 29 says,
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs that I may benefit those who listen.”
1 Peter 3: 15
Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who ask you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.
Colossians 4: 5,6
Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity
Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Build Up or Tear Down
Words and stories have the power to build up or tear down. To me these verses are two sides of the situation. If you are recounting what God has and is doing in your life and in lives of others, you are building up, edifying the listeners and giving God the glory. It helps you and others remember who God is, what he has done. and what he is doing. It also reminds us all that the God of the Bible is still God today.
If we are doing this and it is part of our life, no matter what our age, then we have no time or energy for unwholesome talk—putting others down to build ourselves up. We won’t have the time to gossip, or for foul language, or spreading rumors, or having angry words. Hurtful words sometimes can be a form of teasing but the listener doesn’t take it that way and it becomes hurtful. None of these negatives goes with God’s plan for lifting for Him.
God has so been impressing on me about sharing God stories and being careful with our words. Positive, encouraging words and praising God leaves no room for the negative responses and words that hurt.
Are you dealing with shattered pieces in your life? We would love to hear from you. Comment below or contact us at HopeStreamRadio.
Carol Harrison
Listen to Carol’s program Puzzle Pieces Of Life or visit Carol’s website carolscorner.ca
Carol Harrison B.Ed is a speaker and published author with one book, Amee’s Story and stories in twelve anthologies. She is passionate about helping people of all ages and ability levels find their voice and reach their fullest potential.
She knows, through personal experience that some of life’s experiences are tougher than others. Carol encourages people that even in the twists and turns of life God’s amazing grace provides hope.
She lives in Saskatoon, SK with her husband Brian. They have four adult children and a dozen grandchildren.
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