The Power of Words: Making a Difference

Dr. Gary Yarbrough
Director of Pastoral Care
Shelby Baptist Medical Center

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You, my Lord, my strength and my redeemer” (Psalm 19:14).

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never harm me.” There are variations of this popular children’s rhyme which seems to have made its first appearance to the public in The Christian Recorder (1862). The intent of the rhyme was to encourage children not to retaliate or be negatively affected by name-calling, bullying, or by others saying bad things about them. Unfortunately, it probably did not work for the children or for the adults who were trying to teach an important lesson to their children!

We may say that “words will never break or harm us,” but the truth is that we can often remember the impact – as if it were a body blow to the gut – what someone may have said to us years ago. We may think that we have “moved on” and forgiven the person, but those words possibly left a sting deep within our soul whether or not they were meant to harm us. If so, we can offer a prayer of forgiveness for self and/or for the other person, depending on if we were the recipient or the sender of the harsh and hurtful words. Sadly, if we are still holding a grudge toward someone about what was once said to us, the grudge can potentially rob us of our joy and keep us from developing meaningful relationships.

Starting today, we can begin to make a difference in the lives of others: within our families, communities and even our working environment. We can begin by remembering when we have intentionally hurt someone else with our own words. We can begin by remembering how we felt when we were crushed by the words of a family member, friend or coworker. Try a few “kind word” quotes today: “One kind word can change someone else’s day.” “Kind words do not cost much. Yet they accomplish much.” “The two most powerful things in existence are a kind word and a thoughtful gesture” (Langone). And, finally, how about this one: “Kind words are like honey – sweet to the soul and healthy for the body” (Proverbs 16:24).

Prayer: “Lord, teach us to know when to speak and when to keep silent. Set a watch over our hearts and minds that they may be the gateway from which our words will always be spoken with love and truth. Forgive us for the harm we caused when we intentionally spoke uncaring, insensitive and demeaning words to another. Forgive those who have hurt us in the same spirit. Now, bring Your healing among us. Amen.”