Words Matter

Our words are of the greatest importance. They are the vehicles of our thoughts, the outlet of our ideas. Words are charged with tremendous power. They can hurt or heal, pacify or inflame, inspire or depress. Sir Winston Churchill (1874-1965), British leader and world statesman, is probably remembered most for his unparalleled command of words. In the dark days of war, said one observer, “he mobilized language and made it fight.” There are unlimited possibilities for good or ill in our words.

Words matter–and they can be used for good or ill. In this psalm the imagery is rich as it describes words in the form of complaint (1,2), prayer (3,4,7,8) and God’s response (5,6). Poisonous words include empty talk, insincere flattery, deception, boasting and just irresponsible running on at the mouth. We know personally that words can hurt, yet many people do not hold themselves responsible for causing harm by what they say, tweet, text or post online. And they certainly do not see how that connects with their blindness to others’ needs.

Words that build up have their origin in the God of truth himself. Verse 5 is the first time the Psalms give a voice to the Lord directly. It models how to bless and not curse the poor and needy. Did the words come directly to David, or through a prophet who had stood in the presence of God? Or were they a distillation of what God has revealed about himself in his relationship with his people? That matters less than that we see the connection between God’s words and his great love for the people he has made. Our words too can be part of his activity in the world.

James follows his instruction on controlling what we say with his command to care for the needy (Jas. 1:26-27). How are these two acts of love linked in your life?