Words are powerful. When I was a child, I was never chosen to play in the school sports teams and I suffered from the hurtful words others said to me. Although I tried to strengthen myself in the face of their bullying, still their words affected me deeply. Over time, I became angry, quiet and withdrawn.

This experience made me consider carefully how I use my words. If I do not have something good to say to others, I try to refrain from  saying anything. Better still, I can find words that encourage and build up others. But at times, even with our best intentions, people are hurt by our words – sometimes without our even knowing it.

So, our words must have their foundation in love. The Bible verse quoted above is a good reminder. Pleasant words can bring encouragement to the soul, and even healing to the body. All that we say should be motivated by good will and a desire to love the other person.

 

Prayer: O Lord, grant us gracious words to bless the people around us. Amen