“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1 (KJV)
I grew up hearing, “Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt you.”
Many of us have come to realize that words can hurt. As a matter of fact, Proverbs 12:18 tells us, “There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.”
Words bear the responsibility of life and death. Words have been with us since the beginning of time. We were brought into existence with a Word (Genesis). Words that are spoken carelessly and cavalierly can and do destroy lives. Cyber bullying is infesting our communities as offenders hide behind technology spewing words that can and do destroy lives. Words do matter. And it’s our responsibility to handle words with care.
Many grandmothers – including mine – have said, “If you can’t say something good, don’t say anything at all.” How did we get to the point where having the last word is more important than sharing an encouraging word?
I have purposed to guard my tongue. I want to be more conscious of the words that leave my lips. I want to purposely encourage and build up anyone I come in contact with. I intend to treat my words like gold – a precious commodity. Oftentimes, a hurtful word is shared unintentionally. My intent is to think first and hold my tongue.
Words matter because they can either build up or tear down. I thank God that I can go to His Word. I thank God that he has given us a roadmap that we can follow when words try to tear us down. It’s during those times that I can go to Him and His Word. Philippians 4:8 reminds us, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
When you encounter hurtful words, do not internalize them. Do not allow those words to define you. Take it to the Lord in prayer and His Word. I would like to leave you with these words.
Broken©
Written by Lorraine M. Castle
One too many words was spoken.
Now, I’m broken.
******
Tears of pain and tears of horror.
Feeling there is no tomorrow.
Hope is gone and I’m stricken with sorrow.
I’m broken hearted.
******
As I wallow in my pain
Believing I must be insane,
A light into my mind’s eye came.
It’s JESUS.
******
HE can heal my soul’s diseases.
HE can mend my broken pieces.
I am freed as HE releases
HIS love for me.
******
HIS Spirit in me has been awakened
When I thought all had been forsaken.
I’m healed of a heart that once was breaking.
HE restoreth my soul.
******
HE gave HIS all to save your soul.
HE wants you under HIS control.
Your broken pieces, HE will mold
Into a brand new you.
******
When HE frees you – spread the WORD.
Allow HIS praises to be heard.
Continue throughout your life to serve
The ONE WHO set you free!
******
Praying for your peace, love and prosperity,
Lorraine M. Castle
Rev. Cynthia Jackson is the administrator of the Rhema4U Blog and Innovations Ministries Director. Rev. Jackson is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was licensed and ordained under the tutelage of Bishop David G. Evans. She is an associate minister at Bethany Baptist Church located in Lindenwold, New Jersey. Rev. Jackson founded Innovations Ministries in 2001. Innovations Ministries provides dynamic and innovative programs and services for individuals and families dealing with various health-related issues. She is a gifted teacher, preacher, conference speaker and writer. God has anointed Rev. Jackson to be a spiritual midwife with a passion to empower others to birth God's vision for their lives. Rev. Jackson holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Organizational Management from Eastern University, a Master of Science Degree in Health Administration from Saint Joseph's University and a Master of Science Degree in Christian Counseling from Cairn University.
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