Proverbs 16:24 NLT- Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

If we were to evaluate our daily conversations, we would probably find a few that show room for improvement. When we talk to one another it may be brief or it may be for an extended period of time. Whichever the case, there is so much good we can always interject at just the right moment to remind someone that they are valuable. 

Proverbs 15:4 NLT- Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

Proverbs 18:4 NLT- Wise words are like deep waters; wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.

TOUGH WORDS

Friendly circumstances are MUCH easier for conversing whereas the more challenging scenario is finding a way to cut through a tense or conflicting atmosphere with a string of kind words. I’m here to tell you, it may feel foreign, but it’s possible. AND IT DOESN’T MEAN YOU’RE WEAK! It always takes more strength to be the bigger person. Here is where we can sometimes fail. Maybe we said too much, not enough, or not nearly the right way. Besides, it can be a conscious task to consider the various vocabulary choices and decide to choose kind words in exchange for the big comeback that insults, is a drop the mic, or you’ve been roasted moment. (As they call it). But this shouldn’t be our goal. The flesh will most definitely respond from every built-up emotion deep within. But, if we would take a split second to be still, the Holy Spirit will help us to filter out the nonsense and counsel us by-

Comforting us (John 14:26- KJV)

Help us to remember (John 14:26)

Intercede for us (Romans 8:26)

Help us in our weakness (Romans 8:26)

Empower us (Acts 1:8)

Guide us into all truth (John 16:13)

THE WORD CHOICE- REGRET

Some people will say that when they chose the wrong words while reacting in an argument or highly irritable conversation, that one brought them to it. The truth is, no matter what way the situation went, you and I are always accountable and responsible for every word we commence to speak. Yes, what we say matters… Take a look at what Jesus says about the words we choose to say- 

Matthew 12:36

International Standard Version

I tell you, on Judgment Day people will give an account for every thoughtless word they have uttered,

New International Version

But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.

English Standard Version

I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak,

OUR RESPONSIBILITY

The above scripture reminds us that whether we agree or not, we do have a responsibility for what comes out of our mouths. The truth is our tongue has the power to speak life and death and with life-filled words, we can prevent conversations from going sour but sweeter instead. Here’s an example of the wrong choice of words with someone assigned a new task-

Wrong Choice of words- “You’re not doing this right.” “You should just stop while you’re ahead cause you’re really messing things up!”” I can do a much better job.” “Do you even know what you’re doing?”

Result- Feelings of inadequacies, failure, fear, doubt.

Instead- “Would you like some help? It’s great of you to take care of this. Look, I found if you ever find (blank) happening, all you need to do is (blank) and it makes things so much easier. Hey, it’s going to turn out great in the end. You just keep working at it! I look forward to seeing it when it’s all finished!

Result- Feelings of reassurance, hopefulness, confidence, and support.

We can either be uplifting or destructive with our words. Uplifting words will breathe life and destructive words can be devastating with lasting effects. Those lasting effects can weave their way through and into other areas of our lives. For some, it can become the ways in which they now react, respond or behave to others. Sad right? That’s the negative domino effect. On the other hand, they can make us extremely more sensitive and sympathetic towards others because we understand what it felt like ourselves, to be hurt. It may have started with some simple comment that slowly tore us down instead of it building us up.

Proverbs 18:21 NIV- The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. 

Remember, once words are said, they’re out there. And there is no bringing them back or changing the way something was first said. Speak considerably, speak safely, speak lovingly…. 

Ephesians 4:29 NIV- Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.  

WHEN TO USE KIND WORDS

We have so much to say these days when we speak. Sometimes we don’t even realize how much of it may or may not be making an impact. We have to consider that during all of our busy centered days, to search within and remember how much God loves us so we can show others that same love. Remember, there’s only a fraction of time to interact with the people we love. If it’s the middle or end of the day, make a positive deposit into someone’s life. Tell them you love them, hope they doing ok, and share whatever it is you appreciate about them. Question them about their interest, talents, or strengths in a way that lets them know that you look forward to seeing, or hearing more of it. This is a great start!

Remove your focus away from constantly reminding someone of their flaws, failures, and mistakes. Instead, show them a way out, guide them and be the shoulder they’re sure they can lean on during the time. Say kind words that taste sweet like honeycomb and truly nourish the soul. It’s healing, it removes anxiety and causes ease and it’s absolutely so necessary. 

Love you all and remember that even if your words don’t matter to you, they matter to that someone…

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