How many of us have heard or even used the phrase, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Questions to ponder: Is that an accurate statement? Is that a true phrase? The answer is pretty clear. It is not an accurate or true statement. Words do hurt and affect how one feels. Let’s take a look at what God’s word says concerning the power of words.
First of all, our words must be words that are pleasant to hear. Proverbs 16:24 says, “Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” Even words of correction can be pleasant. I had a teacher in elementary school that even in times of correction, said words that were pleasant to my soul. Why were they so pleasant? They were pleasant because she corrected me with words that were supported with love.
Secondly, our words must be words that are true. Proverbs 8:8 says, “All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them.” This includes words of gossip. Many times the words we say about someone are words of hearsay and are partly true which means they are not true. May we be people that refrain from gossip.
Lastly, our words must be words that are controlled. Proverbs 18:8 says, “The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.” When we use words that are harsh, critical and untrue, we are destroying one’s spirit. May we people that use words that are kind and encourage rather than discourage.
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