JUST WORDS

Read Proverbs 16: 23-24

A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold
in settings of silver. – Proverbs 25:11 (NIV)


When I was little I often heard taunts of children on the playground “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never harm me.” Yet, sometimes words do hurt.

When Job’s three friends came to discuss why he was ill, they said he must have sinned to cause God to afflict him. But, God reproved them; “I am angry with you and your two friends, because you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has” (Job 42:7).

Words. What do they convey, hurt or healing? Building up, encouraging, or tearing down? Barbed, hurtful retorts can lacerate a heart and leave it bleeding and torn long after thoughtless words were spoken. But words of “I love you” or, “I believe in you” can carry a heavy heart through trying times. I recall reading The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom of the almost unbearable conditions she and her sister, Betsie, endured in the Ravensbruck Concentration camp. In spite of the horrific situation, they shared Jesus’ love with fellow prisoners. Many became Christians as a result. What words did they give that lifeless place? Surely they were God’s life giving words.

Thought for the Day
Words of understanding, compassion and encouragement might turn someone to the One who gives eternal life.

Prayer: Father, help me to be mindful of the power of words and to use them as Jesus did – to bind up the brokenhearted.