by Pastor Mark Moreno

Using Words as Tools for Good

Do you ever wish you could take back something that you said? Often we feel this way when we speak out of anger, frustration and even sadness. I know more than a few times, I wish I could grab those words back even as they are coming out of my mouth.

In James 3, we are warned about what comes out of our mouth,

“The tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell”.

It is obvious that our words can cause hurt and so we should be very careful of what we say and how we say it. I bet you can think of times people have said hurtful words to you and you may have carried that pain for years.

There is a statistic that it takes 5 positive comments to balance just one negative comment. I think it may take even more! But that is just one example of how we are to help build each other up with our words and not tear each other down.

Our Lord has good words to speak to us, great words in fact: He assures us that we are forgiven, that we are loved and that we have a place of belonging with Him. I’m thankful that our Lord’s powerful and good word outweighs my big mouth and my hurtful words.

I have a challenge for you today: Intentionally say positive and encouraging words to everyone you interact with as you go through your day. Be sincere and genuine, and be subtle about it. You will see that it has a powerful impact on others and in so doing, you are living the life God has called you to.

Life and faith are better lived when we use our mouth for the good of God and others instead of harmful and hurtful words!

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado