WORDS ARE POWERFUL

WORDS ARE POWERFUL

Text: James 3:2-6
Memory verse:
“There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, But the tongue of the wise promotes health.” Proverbs‬ ‭12‬:‭18‬
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Thomas Jefferson once said, “When you are angry, count ten before you speak; if very angry, count a hundred”. I have seen many exciting marriages and friendships turned bitter and others torn apart by sharp edges of angry words. Most often, the angry spouse would have forgotten and the anger passed but the words can continue to scar the victim for years. “Rash language cuts and maims, but there is healing in the words of the wise.” ‭‭(Prov‬ ‭12‬:‭18‬ ‭MSG‬‬). If you have ever touched a hot stove and then pulled your hand off immediately, you will notice that it still stings, even weeks later. The effects of angry, critical, abusive and unkind words last longer than when they were uttered, so always ensure you taste your words before you spit them out.
Words have creative power and can create your world. Words are seeds that are sown when spoken out. Never threaten your spouse with divorce or separation. “The next time you try it again, just consider the marriage as over”. “I have lost my last reserve of love for you”. “I am finished with you”. These kind of negative words give the devil a foothold over your relationship. Negative words are evil reports (Num 13:32). You ignorantly permit the devil to afflict and attack your marriage when you utter such words. Yes, anger is God-inbuilt emotion but don’t abuse it. Yes, sometimes we are going to get angry but don’t let loose all your anger. Don’t lose your temper (Prov 29:11). It is easier to swallow up angry words than to have to lick them back later. A Chinese proverb paints it like this, “If you are patient in the moment of anger, you will escape a hundred days of sorrow”.
Friends, don’t ruin the joy of your marriage or friendship through unpleasant, angry, rash , critical and abusive words.

Prayer points
1. Father, I plead that You forgive me for every negative word that I have spoken in anger and that You heal the wounds in the heart of the victims in Jesus name.
2. Father, I receive your grace to hold my anger and to be patient even when I am angry in Jesus name.

Today’s declarations
1. I am not a fool because I don’t lose my temper, rather I hold it.
2. Anger is God-inbuilt emotion in me so I don’t abuse it or use it negatively through rash, critical, abusive or unpleasant words.

Contact: pastor@thf.org.ng