Wednesdays with Grace

The Words We Speak

Being the father of a child who is learning new words and their meaning each day, I am constantly reminded who her “teacher” is. It’s so much fun to see her imitate her mother and me when we say “Dog,” “Fingers,” or “Toes.” The words I speak to her are always in a positive and uplifting manner when consciously teaching her.

However, reality sets in when I realize that she can still hear the real conversations in our home about the stressors of work and life. I came across a reading this week that reminded me about the power of ALL words. Proverbs tells us that the tongue can be a tree of life, but it can also break the spirit (15:4). This passage made me ask of myself, “What do the words I speak say about my heart?” (Luke 6:45). Whether at home, work, or with family and friends, am I speaking gentle words of encouragement, peace, and life?  Or, are my words that of a swinging sword? 

Let us fill our heart with grace by immersing ourselves in God’s Word. Then, from a loving heart, may we pray for God to keep watch over our lips (Psalm 141:3), and speak words, full of life, with each breath.

Spencer Mitchell