Words That Make a Difference

Dear church family,

Words matter… Our words can bring life and they can deal a death blow. Proverbs 18:21a reads, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…”

Have you ever been on the receiving end of life-giving words?

I will never forget the words of a summer camp counselor, spoken to me in between senior year of high school and freshman year of college. He said, “I know God has great plans for you. You love people and you love God. I can’t wait to see where life takes you. I believe in you.”

I will never forget that conversation. His message, to that often insecure young man, has stuck with me: “I believe in you.

Equally, you probably have also experienced words that are cruel or unkind spoken to you. And those words can get lodged in your brain, bringing you sorrow each time you recall them.

Every day, we have many opportunities to use our words. In our interactions with the people who cross our paths — family, friends, co-workers, classmates or complete strangers — we can utter words that instill hope, wholeness and courage to others. Or, our statements can kill — dashing dreams, crushing confidence and dragging someone’s spirit down.

Whether we are speaking face-to-face, talking on the phone, texting or on social media remember... Our words are powerful, and they have consequences.

What words will you use? Will your words be a weapon or a wonderful tool that creates something of beauty?

I hope you will join us this Sunday online or in person as we continue our living faith series as we explore James 3 and the 1st of the 3 John Wesley’s rules for life.

Until then… Let’s be mindful of the way our words might impact those to whom we speak. Let’s aspire to use our speech…

To build… not to break.
To bless… not to belittle.
To praise… not to pounce.

Are you ready? I know you can do it.

Why?

Because I believe in you.

Blessings,
Rodney Whitfield
Senior Pastor