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(Presented by Lisa Bishop)
If you were to take inventory of your words over the past 24 hours, would they fall into the “generous” category? The dictionary definition of generous is, “Free from meanness or smallness of mind or character. Abundant. Characterized by a noble or kindly spirit.” If you were to monitor your words, are they mean or kind? Are they generous?
Proverbs 16:24 says, “Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”
Do your words bring health to others? Are they sweet to people’s souls? Are the words you speak to yourself about yourself sweet and kind?
I was having dinner with a dear friend the other day. She was sharing all of the negative thoughts about herself that she has been ruminating on, the condemning and critical words about herself that are on repeat in her head. She made an interesting connection to the lies she believes about herself and how that impacts her words and actions towards others. It’s so true when you think about it. If you have negative self-talk, it will impact the way you show up with and behave towards others. You may come across insecure, impatient, unforgiving and judgmental. What you say about yourself to yourself impacts the way you are with others. What are the unkind words you believe about yourself and speak to yourself?
What mean words do you find yourself thinking about or saying to others? Proverbs 18:21 is a familiar verse. I think it is one most of us can rehearse yet are we heeding these words of wisdom? Are you practicing these truths daily? “Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit—you choose” (Proverbs 18:21, MSG).
Your self talk will either lead to you poisoning yourself or believing truth about who you are and bring you life. Your speech towards others will either kill them and cut them down to size, or give life to those in your midst.
Do people experience God’s grace because you avoid being harsh with your words? Do people experience God’s kindness because of the tone of your voice? Your words and the way you communicate them is important. You get to choose your words. Choose wisely. Be generous with your words and bring health and life to those around you.