As we celebrate our country’s independence, it’s evident that things are not what they once were, nor will they ever be the same. The past is the past, the new is upon us, and the future is unknown. One thing we will always have, no matter what our outside circumstances may be, is our ability to choose. The most important thing we can choose is our words.
As I thought about what I would write, I found myself listening to Pastor Mark Stuenzi from Parker Hill Church in Northeast PA. He was teaching on this topic, and his teaching inspired so much of what I’m about to share.
Words have the power to direct. What and how we speak can point people away from despair to look hopefully to the future. Words can destroy. They can create self-doubt and insecurity; they can create verbal forest fires burning down relationships, or they can be encouraging and uplifting. Words also have the power to diagnose the true condition of your heart.
Once the words are out of our mouths, we can’t take them back. In this unprecedented time, we are seeing a lot of words creating massive upheavals in communities, states, the nation, and even around the world. So many people want to be heard that there is no filter for what is being said. I encourage you to ask yourself these questions before you speak:
- Is what I’m about to say true? If it’s not, don’t say it.
- Is this helpful? Words should bring healing and benefit to others.
- Is this the right recipient? Only talk to the person you have an issue with, avoid spreading gossip.
- Is this loving? Whatever you speak, do it with kindness.
- How will I say what I need to say? Be thoughtful before you speak.
Scripture says that the mouth speaks from the fullness of the heart.
Consider this:
- A heart filled with entitlement speaks complaining words, whereas a heart filled with gratitude speaks uplifting words.
- A heart filled with rejection speaks harsh words, while a heart filled with acceptance speaks tender words.
- A heart filled with self-righteousness speaks judgmental words, and one filled with grace speaks compassionate words.
- A heart filled with jealousy speaks words of gossip, but a heart filled with contentment speaks words of blessing.
- A heart filled with pride speaks critical words, whereas a heart filled with love speaks words of encouragement.
Scripture also says that life and death are in the power of the tongue, so we need to be intentional about the words we speak. We must also be intentional about what fills our hearts because when we change what we put on the inside, we will also create change on the outside. I’m grateful that I took the time to listen to this message, and can share Pastor Mark’s inspiring words.
Since words are my forte, I love it when I hear positive messages about how our words affect our lives, the lives of those we love, and the relationships we have today and those we will have in the future.
It’s all connected! WE are all connected. Though the circumstances in our world keep us apart from one another, and the world is in a bit of chaos today, it doesn’t mean we are not connected.
So, you may ask, how can I become, overall, more positive?
Well, the first thing I would recommend is turning off the TV. Mainstream media is definitely not the place to find positive messages. Instead, listen to your favorite music, choose that which is uplifting. Watch your favorite (non-violent) movie, or read a book that will help you to become/stay positive.
One of the things that helps me is writing down at least three things or people I’m grateful for EVERY day. Another thing is writing out powerful, positive, I Am statements. Claim who you are in positive light. Here are some examples:
- I Am Beautiful
- I Am Adventurous
- I Am Creative
- I Am Delightful
- I Am Joyful
- I Am Imaginative
- I Am Inspired
- I Am Empowered
- I Am Free
- I Am a Visionary
What will you claim as your I Am statements? What are you grateful for? What wisdom do you have to share with the world?
Our words can either make us fly or keep us grounded, sometimes even bury us. Choose your words wisely and soar like the eagle above the clouds!
Thank you Darlene! Have a great 4th of July!!
Teresa, Just lovely!💖