Words hold great importance. A single word can uplift someone’s spirits, while another can wound their feelings. Even between spouses, a single word can make faces flush with anger or light up with joy. Seeing news of a family torn apart by a single word, or a community or nation enduring hardships due to careless speech, reminds us how powerful and significant words are in every aspect of life.
In the life of faith, words are even more significant. In the book of Genesis, from the time of Adam, Satan used a single word to bring death, while God began the work of bringing life through His words. God is light, and we are children of the light. As such, we are called to live gracious and holy lives in all that we do, reflecting God’s glory. The Bible teaches us not to speak anything unwholesome but to speak only words that build others up and benefit those who listen. We must break free from the self-centered ways we once followed in the darkness, being cautious with our words and acting with humility (Eph 4:22ￚ5:8; 1 Pe 1:14ￚ16; 2:1ￚ3).
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger (Pr 15:1). We should refrain from words that provoke others and instead speak words of respect, encouragement, and joy. When we speak such words, even if the other person is angry, their anger will subside. This means we should share words that bring joy to others, rather than seeking to please ourselves. Words that gladden the heart help others embrace the truth and nurture the faith of those who are spiritually weak. Being hurt by words is a significant obstacle in the life of faith. Imagine if someone who is striving to maintain their faith stops attending church because of hurtful words. One careless remark could lead to the loss of a soul. Therefore, before speaking, it is essential to consider the other person’s feelings and reflect on whether our words might cause pain or bring joy.
We know of the one who was saved through a word. When Jesus was crucified, the criminals who spoke to honor Him was immediately saved by the word of God who is the law-giver (Lk 23:39–43). In the same way, many souls can be saved when we speak words of grace. We are the royal priests of the kingdom of heaven. As children of God, the King of kings, both our words and actions should be holy.
Even on this earth, there are many things to control to lead a successful life. While doing whatever we want may bring temporary satisfaction, in the end, nothing truly remains. In the same way, disobeying God’s word results in missing out on great rewards. However, the outcome of obeying His word is the kingdom of heaven, the heavenly Canaan (Heb 3:15–19). The Israelites grumbled and complained many times on their way to Canaan. Yet, God’s purpose in leading them through the wilderness for forty years was to ultimately bless them. We should not harbor complaints. Instead, we must give thanks, trusting in His prophecies and promises.
Let us speak beautiful words and walk with beautiful feet (Ro 10:13ￚ15). Let us spread the truth of eternal life, the New Covenant Passover, and Christ Ahnsahnghong—the Savior in the Age of the Holy Spirit—who brought this truth. Just as God values our lives and saves us, we should value others’ lives, eagerly share the gospel, and help them receive salvation. With a heart like God’s, we can dedicate ourselves to preaching and bear abundant fruits.
God has commanded us, who have heavenly citizenship, to speak only gracious and virtuous words so that we can be transformed into His glorious image (Php 3:19–21). God refines those who are quick-tempered, transforming their hearts to humility, and those whose speech is harsh, teaching them to speak with gentleness, in order to lead them to the kingdom of heaven. If this transformation feels difficult, pray sincerely, asking God, “Please help me speak gently.” Our Heavenly Father hears and answers all our prayers.
Let us not see the refining love of God as a burden, but instead, be thankful for it. May you always speak warm and humble words, words that bring joy and grace to others, words that lead to blessing and heaven, thereby pleasing God and receiving a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of heaven.
