by Joe Finley
Words have the power to build up or destroy.
Sometimes in the heat of heavy criticism or high stress words are spoken that cannot be retracted. That’s why it is so important to walk in the spirit so we don’t give into our fleshly ways.
Relationships in the church and family can be torn apart when words are used inappropriately.
The Psalmist said, “May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:4
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.” Proverbs 10:19
What are ways that we can use words that are pleasing in God’s eyes in all of our relationships?
1) Words of Wisdom
“A person finds joy in giving an apt rely— and how good is a timely word!” Proverbs 15:23
How often do people come to you for some counsel as to what to do? We would like some wisdom. All through the Old Testament we read that the “word of the Lord” gave them wisdom. I think that we should expect the Word of the Lord to come to us as well to speak His wisdom through us.
2) Words of Inspiration
It’s not unusual to become downcast at times, I mean more than once in our lives we need some inspiration to get us through. Sometimes a situation can get so bad that only the best inspirational words can help bring some kind of hope where all hope is lost.
When the need for inspirational words come, it does not matter who is saying them or why but what becomes vital is to feel inspired to take whatever life throws at you.
That’s one good reason that people need to read the Word regularly. The best inspirational words will come when they consistently read His Word.
3) Words of Encouragement
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” I Thessalonians 5:11
The early church practiced this principle. We all live in a world that puts pressure on us from many angles – work, finances, family, church – words of encouragement are sorely needed.
One of the “coolest” things about going to FCA conventions is to be around fellow ministers and missionaries who are so encouraging, even though some are going through hard times themselves. They have found that their source of encouragement is not only from their peers but from the great encourager, the Holy Spirit who speaks into their lives. He is the greatest encourager Himself.
4) Words of Motivation
One of my favorite motivational scriptures is found in Philippians 4:13 “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.”
As many pastors of smaller churches know that they are the maintenance person, custodian, bulletin preparer, pastoral care, worship leader, bookkeeper, family provider, as well as preacher often wonder “Where does my help come from?” It is then that the Lord reveals Himself as the helper. The One who gives the strength to continue on in His power and strength.
So what’s the conclusion in this matter of our words?
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.” Matthew 12:36
May God help us to choose our words wisely.
Joe Finley is pastor of Living Hope Church in Puyallup, WA and serves as a Fellowship Elder.
