The Power of Words

There are many words in our world. Spoken words and written words. Not to mention the words we use on radio, TV, WhatsApp, Twitter, and Facebook.

James 3:1-12 teaches us the effect words can have; sometimes stronger than medicine or more poisonous than poison itself, sharper than a knife or softer than nurturing oil.

Grandiloquence, Injustice and Dissemination

If we are honest, we’ll have to agree with James: Our tongue, no matter how small, can say very big things. You can brag a little, tell heavy lies, give a little sneer at someone, or pronounce cruel humiliations. It's all injustice we do to others, and ultimately we always harm ourselves, too. What makes it even worse is that the words spoken this way will spread. It is a devastating fire that will spread further. It is impossible to estimate how many lives have been devastated by the words of one single man.

That's why James goes so far as to say that the fire, kindled by negative talk, is lit by the fire of Gehenna (hell). Only the enemy of God and man is able to run rampant and be so devastating. What a contrast to the words of God that create, heal and encourage!

Blessing and Calling 

Fortunately, we can do much more with our words and our tong than just cause damage. We are able to bless and encourage others to do good. Our words can be stronger than depression, stronger than discouragement, and stronger than negative thinking. Our words can reverse anger!

We can do both things with our words (Proverbs 15:1 says exactly the same thing). However, this may not be. Actually, it should even be impossible. Praising someone, and then bashing someone else. Praising God, and then gossip about people. That brings us to the third point: from what source do our words come?

The Source of Our Words 

It is difficult to watch our words. How can we improve this? The person who struggles with his words, wonders why he talks so negatively, why he curses so easily, why sneering at someone is easier than giving a compliment, might ask from what source he drinks. A source of fresh water cannot produce salt water. But are we connected to that source of fresh water?

With the risk of sounding like a cliché, again the questions arise: What do we watch? What people do we spend time with? What do we read? What websites do we visit? Or, to put it more positively: Do we look at things that build us up (nature, the beauty in people)? Do we spend enough time with the right people (church members, positive friends)? Do we read Gods Word? Can we justify our use of the internet?

What the heart thinks, the mind speaks. Stay close to the Source of Life!