Sermon On The Power Of Words

Anthony Jay Robbins, often known as Tony Robbins, an American author and philanthropist once remarked: “Throughout human history, our greatest leaders and thinkers have used the power of words to transform our emotions, to enlist us in their causes, and to shape the course of destiny. Words can not only create emotions, they create actions. And from our actions flow the results of our lives.” Proverbs 15:4 reminds us: “Gentle words bring life and health; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.”

Words are one of the most powerful and effective means of communication in life. They can convey a person's mood or feelings to another, build on relationships or totally annihilate them. The command of language has many contrasting ramifications, it can uplift the heart or it can destroy the soul. The right words at the right time can have immeasurable results. Words can make a person feel good about themselves, provide reassurance or crush their confidence and make them feel worthless.

It has been suggested by many that: "Words have an impact, so think before you speak." We should remember that once uttered, words can never be retracted. Even if we apologise for words stated in anger, the damage is done and may become ever-lasting. 1 Peter 2:1-5 confirms: “So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation - if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”

The general manner in which we communicate with another can have significant effects. If we speak gently and lovingly, but with authority, we may often reassure a person who is suffering from doubts. The mental illness of depression can cause devastating effects on a sufferer. The opportunity to discuss their personal problems with one who is willing to listen can provide amazing results. Proverbs 18:4 states: “A person’s words can be life-giving water; words of true wisdom are as refreshing as a bubbling brook.”

Words can provide comfort in times of grief. Many may feel lost or insecure after the death of a loved one, they may often seek help from others as they feel uncertain or lose a positive direction in life. Proverbs 18:20 states: “Words satisfy the soul as food satisfies the stomach; the right words on a person’s lips bring satisfaction.”

God’s word is undoubtedly the most beneficial and informative that we can acquire. It can provide comfort to an empty heart, it can nourish our hunger, it can quench our thirst, it provides knowledge and encouragement. It can provide wisdom and reassurance which enables us to follow the correct path in life. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 confirms: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.”

Words often come easily for some. How they are used is, of course, down to the individual. Kind words are of the most benefit to others. Proverbs 16:24 states: “Kind words are like honey-sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”.

If we can show kindness by carefully using words to encourage and guide others, then we are fulfilling a purpose in life. Rachel Wolchin, an American author, once remarked: "Be mindful when it comes to your words. A string of some that don't mean much to you, may stick with someone else for a lifetime."

Words, whether they are written or spoken, can teach knowledge. Without words, we would never learn or appreciate anything in life or learn of the existence of God. But, they can also hurt deeply and cause phycological harm if used indiscriminately by those who have no consideration for the feelings of others. James 3:1-5 reminds us: “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.

For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!”