Listen To Your Words

By Gail Rodgers

Have you listened lately to the words you use when you speak to those nearest and dearest to you?

Sometimes in the hurried flurry of our day we simply overlook the way we are communicating. We excuse our hasty words and harsh tones because we are tired or stressed.

God's Word reminds us that our words are very important. We need to take responsibility for what comes out of our mouths. Listen to these wise words...

"Reckless words pierce like a sword but the tongue of the wise brings healing" (Proverbs 12:18).

Our sharp words have the ability to cut the people around us. A wise woman will consider what her words are doing and will seek to communicate in a way that brings healing rather than hurt.

We know that our communication is made up of words, tone and body language.* Our words only make up about 7% of our communication.* Our tones make up 38%.* Our body language makes up the remaining 55%.

Take note today of what your communication sounds and looks like. It may surprise you. Ask the Holy Spirit to remind you to be wise in your speech and gentle in your tones and body language.

The world out there is filled with sharp words of sarcasm, criticism, negativity and worry. Go against the flow and ask God to help you bring a calm and gentle spirit to your home and workplace today through the way you communicate.

Hearts all around us are hurting. You have a unique opportunity today to be a woman of wisdom in the way you communicate. With God's help bring encouragement and healing through your words, tones and body language.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, forgive me for the many times words spring from my mouth that are unnecessary comments of gossip, hurt or criticism. Today I ask that Your Holy Spirit will be my guide in my communication. Nudge me when I am ready to speak piercing words. Fill me with Your gentleness and compassion and remind me that my tones and body language are communicating too. Help me to take responsibility for what comes out of my mouth. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.