The Power Of Words by Yvonne M. Morgan
Elizabeth Barrett Browning Sonnet 43 begins with the well-known phrase, “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” Then, the poem goes on to explain all the ways she encounters her love. The author has an elegant way with her words. It amazes me how her words can paint a beautiful picture that still impacts people many years later. Our words carry more weight than we realize. With our words, we can tear down, or we can build up. We use them to bless or to curse. Sometimes we hurl our words like stones to hurt someone or wrap the hearer in their love and warmth. And, in the worst situations, we use them to speak lies about someone. So, how are you using your words? Throughout Proverbs, we see verses about the power of our words. Here are a few of those verses: • Proverbs 15: 1 - “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but hard words stir up anger.” (NIV) • Proverbs 15:4 - “Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” (NLT) • Proverbs 16:24 - “Kind words are like honey-sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” (NLT) • Proverbs 18:4 - “The words of the mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream.” (NIV) • Proverbs 25:18 - “Telling lies about others is as harmful as hitting them with an ax, wounding them with a sword, or shooting them with a sharp arrow.” (NLT)
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And, as we enter November, I think we should explore some positive words to help us show our thankfulness for things in our lives. We can use this list to remember and thank our Lord for all He has done for us. So, how do I thank thee? Let me count the ways: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
A is for an abundance of love B is for blessings of family and friends C is for our Christian community D is for each day of life E is for the food we eat F is for forgiveness G is for Grace H is for Holiness I is for Biblical instructions J is for Jesus K is for Kingdom of heaven L is for love of God and family M is for memories N is for neighbors O is for our occupations P is for the gift of prayer Q is for our quiet times R is for restoration to God S is for salvation T is for our talents and gifts U is for the universe V is for victory over the grave W is for the warmth of friendships X is for extra love during this holiday season Y is for the year gone by Z is for zeal for life
