Words have power.
Solomon, sometimes called “the wisest man who ever lived,” wrote, “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing,” and “The tongue has the power of life and death”(Proverbs 12:18; 18:21).
Too many people experienced the power of words because when they were young, someone, maybe an abusive parent or teacher, used words like these with them: “You’re stupid.” “You’re ugly.” “You can’t sing.” “You’re good for nothing.” “You’ll never amount to anything.” “You’re lazy.” “Nobody likes you.” Some of those who were wounded by words when they were young and vulnerable now understand the destructive power of those words because they’ve spent their lives trying to overcome the damage, to erase those words from playing in their head, or to try to prove them wrong.
Others had the opposite experience. They had a parent, teacher, coach, or other person in their life who said to them, “You can do it.” “I’m proud of you.” “You look great!” “You can do whatever you put your mind to.” “You’re terrific.” Those words affirmed them, made them feel good about themselves, gave them confidence, and enabled them to take risks.
The good news is that, if you understand the dynamic, you don’t have to let negative words haunt and harm you throughout your life. You don’t have to let those words or the sad people who spoke them control your life.
The fact is that WORDS, positive or negative, can shape the life of a child for their entire life.
The same is true of marriage. The WORDS a husband and wife speak to each other shape their relationship for good or bad. Words can kill a marriage or breathe new life into it. Words can wound or bring healing. Experts suggest that one “zinger” requires ten positive statements to minimize the damage. If you want to change your marriage, change your WORDS. Even a dead marriage can be brought to life through the right kind of words – maybe starting with, “I’m sorry. Please forgive me. How can I make this right?”
Words have power in the workplace too. They shape attitudes and relationships. They kill motivation or invigorate it. The work environment, productivity, and interpersonal relationships are all influenced by WORDS, whether spoken by supervisors or employees. Even in confrontation or correction, the right words, spoken in the right way, can produce positive change and leave both parties feeling good about the exchange.
Friendships, family relations, classmates, and acquaintances–all are affected by words. Words transform every relationship for the better or for worse. I can choose words which are transformative in positive ways.
I can’t control another person’s words, but I can control mine. I can make a difference in every setting and relationship if I choose words that build up rather than tear down, that encourage rather than bring pain.
