Why Do Words Matter?

Words don’t just describe how we feel. Words tell the truth. The Way we speak trains our hearts, forms our beliefs, and tells the story of who we are. When we use Words carelessly, our words can wound others. Phrases that are inaccurate and repeated, normalize harm. When we use Words that play on emotions such as anger, sadness, pride, and laughter to name a few… We can appeal to emotion to convey our message rather than truth – which creates logical fallacy to persuade others in the wrong direction. 

If Words didn’t Matter, why then does Scripture warn us so Fiercely? 

There are many places in the Bible that warn us about our Words. Here are just four we can consider as we work on:

Proverbs 18:21 NIV

The tongue has the power of life and death,
and those who love it will eat its fruit.

Proverbs 12:18 NIV

The words of the reckless pierce like swords,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Colossians 3:8 NIV

But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.

1 Peter 3:10 NIV

Whoever would love life
and see good days
must keep their tongue from evil
and their lips from deceitful speech.

We can’t claim truth, pure heart and love when we use our Words to shut people down before they are heard. We can’t claim truth, pure heart and love when we use Words that dehumanize, belittle or cancel each other out. Words are not neutral. They either build or erode. 

It is our responsibility for our Words to sustain God’s truth. Our Words deliver our Heart. Our Words reflect our love.  

Our Words are planting seeds while the tide is turning.  

Faith, Integrity and Character show up in our Words. Our Words don’t just land in space. Our Words land in someone else’s life. 

AND THAT’s WHY WORDS MATTER.