We have all heard the saying "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." This is a cute saying, and I wish it were true, but it's just not. Words do hurt, especially when they are meant to belittle, or tear you down. There has been many relationships destroyed, and many churches divided over something as little as words. Consider what James had to say about the tongue, "But no one can tame the tongue, it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison (James 3:8)." How do you use your tongue? James went on to say that with the tongue we bless God and then turn right around and curse others. My parents taught me when I didn't have anything good to say, not to say anything at all. The point I'm trying to make is that there is power in your words realize it or not. What you say does have an impact on others around you. What you say to a friend, spouse, or your children will determine whether or not you live in joy, or you struggle with bitterness, anger, and depression. Maybe if you are always angry, fighting, or stressed, its because of the words you allow to come out of your mouth.
A gentle answer turns away wrath,
But a harsh word stirs up anger.
(Proverbs 15:1)
Instead of you using your words to insult, gossip, and destroy, use them for good. Try speaking kind to people you come in contact with everyday. Tell someone you love, that you love them, tell your kids how proud you are of them, and speak positively over you own life. Tell a friend how much you cherish their friendship, and a husband or wife how blessed you feel to have them in your life. It is no coincidence that the very people who are always negative, and in a bad mood, are the same ones that never have anything good to say about anything. What you say and how you talk affects your mood, good, or bad. So today lets watch what we say, and only say what we mean, and that coming from a kind heart and loving spirit. Stop trying to use your words to kindle fires, and use them only to build solid foundations, and fruitful relationships.