Speaking Life: The Divine Power Of Our Words Series

Speaking Life: The Divine Power of Our Words

Introduction:

Today, we are going to revisit a topic that is both simple and profound: the power of our words. As Christians, we understand that words matter. They hold immense power in shaping our lives and the lives of those around us. But do we truly grasp the depth of that power? Do we recognize that every word we speak carries the potential to either glorify God or grieve Him?

Let’s dive into the Word of God today and reflect on what it means to use our speech wisely, to speak life into every situation, and to honour God with our words. Our foundational Scripture comes from Proverbs 18:21 (NLT): “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.”

Let’s explore three key areas where we see the power of words in the Bible: words that speak life, words that heal, and words that transform.

Point 1: Words that Speak Life

From the very beginning of the Bible, we see that God Himself used words to create life. In Genesis 1:3 (NLT), God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. The Hebrew word for “said” here is “amar,” which means to speak or declare. God’s words brought the universe into existence—His words had the power to create.

As bearers of God’s image, our words also carry the power to create, not on the same cosmic level, but in the lives of those around us. Jesus tells us in Matthew 12:36-37 (NLT), “And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.” Jesus is reminding us that every word matters. The Greek word used for “idle” here is “argos,” meaning lazy, careless, or unproductive. Jesus warns us that our words can either speak life or cause damage, and we will be held accountable for them.

Picture a gardener tending to their garden. Every word we speak is like a seed planted in the hearts of others. If we speak life-giving words, those seeds will grow into something beautiful. But if we speak words of negativity and destruction, those seeds will bear bad fruit. We must be diligent to speak life with every word.

Someone once said, “You can change your world by changing your words. Remember, death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Our words have the power to change atmospheres, shift situations, and bring hope where there is despair.

Point 2: Words that Heal

The Bible speaks often about the power of words to heal. Proverbs 16:24 (NLT) says, “Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” The imagery here is that of honey, which was highly valued in biblical times for its healing properties and sweet taste. The Hebrew word for “kind” is “no‘am,” meaning pleasantness or delight. Our kind words can be a balm for the soul, bringing healing to those who are hurting.

James speaks about the destructive potential of the tongue in James 3:5-6 (NLT): “In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire.” Here, James warns us of the tongue’s power to cause immense damage if not controlled. The Greek word for “fire” here is “pur,” which metaphorically represents the destructive force of uncontrolled speech. Yet, just as fire can destroy, it can also refine. Our words, when guided by the Holy Spirit, can bring healing and restoration.

Imagine a surgeon performing a delicate operation. Their tools have the potential to either heal or harm, depending on how they are used. Similarly, our words can be instruments of healing or tools of destruction. We must use them with care and precision.

Pastor Steven Furtick says, “Your words have the power to bring healing and hope. Speak life over yourself and others, and watch God work through your words.” Healing words, spoken in love and truth, can mend broken hearts and restore relationships.

Point 3: Words that Transform

The ultimate goal of our words should be transformation—both in our own lives and in the lives of others. Paul reminds us in Romans 12:2 (NLT), “Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” The Greek word for “transform” here is “metamorphoo,” which refers to a complete and radical change, much like the transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly. Our words can play a key role in this transformation.

Paul further emphasizes this in Colossians 4:6 (NLT): “Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” The Greek word for “gracious” is “charis,” which means grace or favour. When our speech is full of grace, it reflects the transformative power of the Gospel in our lives.