The Power of Words: How to Use Them Wisely and Kindly

  The Power of Words: How to Use Them Wisely and Kindly Words are powerful, and we have a responsibility to use them wisely. Words are powerful. They can create or destroy, heal or hurt, inspire or discourage. Words shape our thoughts, feelings, and actions. Words reflect our past and influence our futures. They help or hinder relationships and careers. Words are so significant that even in the Bible, there is a chapter by James called The Untameable Tongue, which warns us about the dangers and difficulties of controlling our speech. JAMES WRITES: For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. (James 3:7-8, ESV) James compares the tongue to a small but powerful instrument, like a rudder of a ship or a spark of fire, that can change the course of events or cause great damage. He also contrasts the tongue’s inconsistency and hypocrisy, as i...