Words...They have power

Our words set the tone for conversations and we should not underestimate the power they have. If we use them in a good way…well then usually good comes but when we use them in a way that is not so good, then problems arise.

1 Peter 3:10 – For the scriptures say, If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies.

Our words are weighted, and we should be thoughtful and careful with them.

I think we can see this power when we think of criticism and constructive criticism….

When we are being corrected or suggested something it depends on how it is given on how we take it. Constructive criticism is a better way to go because you will get a more positive response. I know there have been many times I've been given advise both ways and I will walk away feeling better about the conversation that was constructive than the one that was just criticism.

How we talk to each other tells the other person a lot about who we are and how much we respect them. I tell my kids all the time to be care by the way they talk and the things they say. There have be many times something was said as a joke but is was not taken that way.

Another way we have to be careful when we are in conversation is through text or email. If we know the person we can hear them say what they have sent in our heads. With that we can some times determine how they meant what they said to come across. But if we don't know the person we have to be more gracious with our thoughts about our we perceive things.

I read this quote and I think it sums that up pretty well...

“Tone of voice is particularly powerful in communicating emotional meaning, and in its absence, we tend to fill that gap with our own hopes, fears, or impressions about how the other person feels. We might guess right, especially if we know them well, but it’s also possible that our impressions could be far from reality.”

We are given direction over and over again in the Bible about our tongue and how powerful it can be. Proverbs 18: 20-21 - Wise words satisfy like a good meal; the right words bring satisfaction. The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

The Bible also lets us know that God speaks to us, and His tone is one of love and peace. Jesus taught, “My sheep hear my voice, I know them, and they follow me”- John 10:27 and this is the example we should follow.

God gives us every way possible we can walk through this life with grace and mercy and showing His love through us to others. The best way we can do that is through conversation and action.

Allow God to lead you in all aspects.