I love to talk. Since my teenage years I’ve always joked that talking is my favorite sport and I’m really good at it! But my real love of talking is the words.

I have such a respect for words. I am in awe of the power they possess. Single words can evoke such strong emotions. Love, fear, joy, rejection, envy, friendship, yes, no. Just saying these words stir up feelings in me, some positive and some negative. I bet those words bring your emotions to attention as well. And what about memories? Don’t you get a flood of memories when you hear the lyrics to a favorite song? Even reading a letter from a family member or a friend is bound to conjure up a memory or two. Words can also cause our imagination to soar. Reading a new novel and putting myself in that exciting adventure is thrilling. Likewise, re-reading a favorite book allows me to experience those emotions all over again.

Another facet of words I marvel at is their influence over us. Just a few words can change my attitude in a matter of minutes. I know we have all had a bad day. The kind when nothing seems to be going our way. Then a kind word, an expression of gratitude, even a loving text comes to us and almost instantly we feel better. Our mood is brightened, our spirit is lifted and a warm glow fills our heart. It’s true, a person expresses the sentiment but it is the words that have an effect on us. Equally, an insult, an accusation and especially hateful, angry words can instantly bring pain and hurt to our hearts and minds.

The bible tells us about the impact our words have on each other. Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Ephesians 4:29 instructs us, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Words are immensely powerful! As a writer, I respect their influence. I always ask God to give me the words to share that will make a difference and bless others. And you can do the same. Take a moment today to say a loving, kind word(s) to someone who needs it. Be the one to lift their spirits and warm their heart.

“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Proverbs 16:24 NIV

“As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless.” Psalm 18:30 NIV

“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14 NIV