The Power of Our Words

If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. (Jas. 1:26)

Words can diffuse or escalate a conflict; they can destroy, and they can bring healing.

Read more here.

Here are seven specific things you can do this week:

1. If you see that you have a problem with your speaking . . . look at your heart. Is it possible that your words are tipping you off to the fact that you need to evaluate your relationship with God? Is it possible that you are playing with God and have never seriously given your life and hope to Him? If that is the case, focus on step one - trusting Jesus Christ for your salvation. Check the Word of God, talk to Christian friends . . don't continue living in futility any longer.
2. Ask God to make you more sensitive to those around you. Pray that He would help you see others with His eyes.
3. Think about a person that has encouraged you in the past: a teacher (maybe even way back in pre-school or kindergarten), a friend, a parent or someone else. Take the time to write them a note, give them a call, say thanks. Be as specific as you can. By doing so you will encourage them more than you could know.
4. Set out each day to learn something new about some of the people you see every day. Ask questions . . . show interest . . . pay attention. Listen to the old stories for the new meanings.
5. Set out with the express purpose of catching people who are "doing it right". Look for things to affirm in others. Unfortunately, we'll see the failures with no problem . . . we've had years of training.
6. Memorize Colossians 4:6 or James 1:19.
7. Do a study of the book of Proverbs. Write down all the verses that relate to our conversation.

Words...free printable copy sheet for children.