Words. They’re powerful aren’t they? If you doubt me, try running through your office yelling the words “Free donuts,” or “Whose Mercedes was that? I just raffled it off.” Words can bring joy and life. If you’re a husband I would like you to find your wife, place your hand on your heart and repeat after me. “I will love, honour and cherish my wife. I will clean the sink after I shave. I will cut irritating noises by 11 percent. I solemnly swear that I will buy underwear in bulk every 4-6 yrs. I will stop saying ‘If it will make you feel better, I’ll pretend I’m wrong.’ I will ask you more questions and listen to your answers. Once this year I will say, ‘Let’s go buy you some shoes.’” Well done men.
Now ladies. I’m not letting you off the hook. Cozy up to your husband. Nibble on his earlobe and say, “Is there anything you can’t fix? Brad Pitt’s got nothing on you. Flex something. It makes me giddy.” Now lean in really close and say this: “No problem, I understand. Here’s the remote. Let’s watch something violent.”
Ah words. They have the power to impart life and joy. Of course, words can also bring pain and suck the joy right out of our bodies. Words like “What’s wrong with you? Why do you always do that?” Why aren’t you like your sister? Words of accusation. Words that discourage. Words that tear down.
Some of the most belittling words that have ever been spoken are these: “You’ll never amount to anything.” I know a man who was told this by a teacher in High School, and this simple accusation haunted him all of his life. For my friend, these words have been like prison bars. But what if this teacher had spoken words of encouragement instead? Words like, “I know you can apply yourself, you’ll have such a bright future.” Or “You have so many gifts and talents.” I wonder what kind of life my friend would be living today. Proverbs 18:21 tells us that “death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” Today let’s speak life and blessing. And if you’ve spoken anything less to someone in the past? Find them, and make it right.
Learn the words God says about you, and cling to them. God says that you are righteous, holy and blessed. You are a child of God, and he gives you purpose, value and bright hope for tomorrow. And if you’re married, look your spouse in the eyes and say this: “If I had a nickel for every time I saw someone as attractive as you, I’d have five cents.”
