Word Power!
“If don’t have anything nice to say, then . . .” You probably know the rest. If we actually lived by this rule then the world would be a much quieter place. It seems our words carry a great deal of power and potential. Words can express undying love and vindictive hate. In one moment a person might share word of encouragement. You feel empowered, then another person barks out a critical hurtful statement and the mood falls. This statement may not have even been directed at you, but the atmosphere still thickens.
It is amazing how words can change the very atmosphere in a room. It is no wonder Solomon provides some amazing wisdom concerning word power. He explains the importance of crushing gossip and speaking the truth in love. James chimes in as well. He cannot rationalize how blessing and cursing come from the some mouth. As if to drive it home, he proclaims, “It’s not supposed to be this way!”
But it still is. It seems easier to speak poorly of someone than to find some trait that speaks highly of them. Sometimes we make an attempt to say something nice, but only after saying ten critical things about the individual. Of course, there are excuses, “But you don’t know them like I do!” or “You should put yourself in my shoes.”
Life is difficult and people are most of what makes it difficult. It is those close to you that will hurt you the most. It can be easy to cut them down and return the hurt through our critical words. But I am reminded of the words of Jesus on the cross, “Father, forgive them.” Talk about powerful words!
If you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say anything at all.
Sometimes the most power words are the ones not spoken.
Read: Proverbs 26, James 3
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