Your Words
In my newsletter today I would like to ask – how do you think your language evolved? According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders: “The first 3 years of life, when the brain is developing and maturing, is the most intensive period for acquiring speech and language skills. These skills develop best in a world that is rich with sounds, sights, and consistent exposure to the speech and language of others.” In addition, Google states that the average number of words in an adult’s vocabulary is 20,000-35,000. As I think about all the people I engage on a weekly basis, certain people are brought to mind. Some people have an easy time communicating and others hesitate to talk at all. There are some who articulate their words well, present themselves in a professional manner while lifting up others and there are some who enjoy using profanity while cutting associates down with their words. The way people communicate says a lot about their character and their heart. However, I often wonder if the word choice is intentional or is there a true lack of teaching on what is appropriate and acceptable? Whatever the case, various people may not care how they speak with others, or couldn’t care less about the words they use. But for me, I am certainly mindful on how I use my verbiage and how I engage others. Though I am not perfect, I do make a conscious effort in how I choose my words and think about the way I want to be perceived. I certainly try to consider those around me so I do not offend them. Similarly, I try my best to recognize the way I speak to others because I never want them to question who I am and who I represent-me, my family and more importantly Jesus. I guess what I am trying to say is: when you speak, do you use your words to edify or tear down? Do you use profanity to get your point across or do you refrain from this behavior? Do you use your words to antagonize someone when they are in opposition to you or do you use your words to lift up even when there are differences? As a society, speaking ill of others and cussing seems to be more accepted than it used to be. In my conversations, it is clear that bad language and disparaging others seems to be expressed more frequently in modern culture. Does this bother you that anything can be said and it doesn’t matter if it hurts, offends or tears down? As you can see from above, we are taught words at a very young age, and I am assume bad language was not taught when parents were molding their children. However, as a parent myself, I was very careful and intentional when teaching my children how to talk. As my children grew, it was up to them to make a choice in how they used their words. Just like my children, we as adults have a choice in how we communicate. I encourage you, the next time you speak, be intentional while choosing your words. Ask yourself if your words bring life and build up or do they cut and tear down? Remember the choice is yours!
Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:29-32
Chaplain Tracey Burns
Reflection Questions
⦁ How will you choose to speak to others?
⦁ Will you choose to pause before using inappropriate language?
Bonus: Great song (if you are interested) - How do you articulate “Your Words?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqaA8XBI15o&ab_channel=ThirdDayVEVO