Make THESE Words Stick
Over the past few weeks, we have been talking about words. We have looked at what words can do when posted recklessly, spoken carelessly, and consumed thoughtlessly.
Words can be detrimental, but if used well they can be revolutionary.
Have you ever been going through an average day and an encouraging text message brightens it up? Or in a rough season a friend’s kind consolation gives you the strength to carry on? Yes words can hurt, but the right words can bring healing, confidence and strength.
What battles the effects of negative words? Positive truth.
Unfortunately negative words have positive words beat in two ways:
1.) Negative words are more prevalent.
2.) Negative words are more memorable.
Who still remembers the mean name the middle school bully called you? ME!
Who remembers the kind words your grandma wrote to you on a Christmas card last year? NOT ME!
Because negative words stick harder and longer, we have to be intentional to remember and cling to life giving truths.
How do we do this?
1.WRITE IT DOWN: I have a running note on my phone of the kind things people say. When I am discouraged or feeling unloved, I often find myself reaching for that note to remind myself of the truth: people are kind and people have said kind things to me. Writing down kindness is a helpful way to remember the good words spoken to you rather than dwelling on the bad.
2.MEMORIZE IT: What is better for your heart and mind than reciting God’s truth over yourself? Probably nothing. Memorizing Scripture is an underrated discipline and has the potential to renew your heart and mind without having to talk to anyone. God has kind words for you. Write them on your heart and recite them often. (Don’t know where to start? Start by looking at Psalm 139).
3.SPEAK IT: We all know the effect positive words have on us, so wouldn’t we pass that along to others? Be generous with kindness, generous with encouragement and generous with affirmation.
If negativity sticks, then let’s hold fast to and spread positive truths so that we and the people around us can be at ease.