The Power of Words

Words can encourage, comfort, teach, and inspire.

They can also wound.

Many of us can still remember words spoken years ago that continue to affect us today—for better or for worse.

In this episode of FaithFuel, Bob Shaw talks about the lasting impact of our words, what the Bible says about the power of the tongue, and how a few encouraging words can make a difference in someone's life.

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Transcript

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We all remember words somebody said to us years ago, but have we ever asked ourselves why we still remember them? I'm Bob Shaw, and this is Faith Fuel. Proverbs 18 verse 21. The tongue can bring death or life. There are words people say that stay with us, so much so that they still affect us to this very day. On the positive side, maybe it was a teacher who believed in you, a parent who encouraged you, a friend who came alongside you when life was difficult. Of course, the opposite is true as well. You're familiar with this phrase, sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me. Sounds good, but it just isn't true. How about a criticism, an insult, a careless comment, something said in anger? The event itself may be long gone. The words aren't. I've spent most of my life working in radio. Radio is words. Communication is words. And one thing I've learned is that words have influence. They can encourage, they can teach, they can comfort, but they can also wound. Once words leave our mouths, we don't get them back. That's one reason the Bible has so much to say about the way we speak. Proverbs says the tongue can bring death or life, and both are possible. Every day we have opportunities to build people up or tear them down. People you interact with every day, carrying burdens we know nothing about. A few encouraging words can mean far more than we know. So before today is over, think of someone who could use an encouraging word. Send the text. Make the call. Say it face to face. You may never know how much those words mean to them. Lord, thank you for the gift of words. Help us use them wisely. Forgive us for the times we've spoken carelessly or hurtfully, and help us become people who encourage, strengthen, and build others up. Use our words to reflect your love and your truth. In Jesus' name. Amen. I hope this encouraged you. Now take a moment to encourage somebody else. A few sincere words may make more of a difference than you realize. I'm Bob Shaw. Peace and joy.