Vital signs- Wednesday, October 11th, 2023

Your Words Matter

“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare” (Proverbs 15:1).

“Your Words Matter.” This sentence was on a large sign conveys the importance of using words well, in written or verbal form. Another sign shouts with the words, “Say It Better!” - a reminder to STOP! Think about what you want to say and be aware that there may be a better, more excellent way to communicate your thoughts. I found myself wishing there were a way to display these signs in homes and churches throughout the world. People, who profess to be Christ-followers, uttering harsh words that make tempers flare, as opposed to giving gentle answers that deflected anger. Even when speaking truth, attempting to represent Jesus, many Christians use their words in ways that fail to communicate the love of Christ. May we never forget that when Jesus was on earth, He spoke truth in love! He never failed to communicate His love for others while simultaneously speaking truth. The Apostle Paul also stressed the importance of loving communication. He told Christians at Ephesus to, “…Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them” (Ephesians 4:29). Thankfully, over this past year I’ve witnessed this type of communication , and what a difference! I watched people show love through soft answers that deflected anger with good, helpful and encouraging words. Carefully chosen words truly mattered and were received quite differently. Relationships grew and unity developed among people whose speech was seasoned with grace, using God-directed words, that were spoken with wisdom and love in an effort to “Say It Better!”

Can you remember a time when a conversation ended badly due to harsh words that were uttered? Think about the places where communicating a soft answer is challenging… your home, your church, your workplace, or your community. How often do you stop to ask the Father for help in communicating a clear message laced with love, prior to speaking to others?

Father, help me use my words to represent you well. At times my flesh leaps before your Spirit, and I fail to communicate love with soft answers that reflect your heart. Help me to be bold in speaking truth and loving in the way I communicate it. Thank you for the example of Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.

Team Wade loves you and is praying for you!❤️👊