Job suffered a lot, and when he was about to give up, his friend Eliphaz reminded him of how he’d encouraged people in similar situations to the one he was facing: ‘In the past you have encouraged many people; you have strengthened those who were weak’ (Job 4:3 NLT). Good words have the power to comfort, build up and create lasting relationships. But negative ones are equally powerful; untamed, our words can destroy people’s confidence and create wounds. James 3:8 says: ‘No human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison’ (NIV). We need to put thought into everything that we say, because our words, both positive and negative, can have a lasting effect on those who hear them. We might not think of our words being an inheritance, but what we say can make a difference in someone’s life for years to come. We’ve probably all experienced this in some way. Does a harsh word from years ago ever replay in your mind? Or is there an inspiring phrase that you once read somewhere that helps you keep going when you’re facing a difficult task? We might think that the things we say don’t have any real power or wisdom in them, but we never know what lasting impact they might have on someone. What we should want to do is encourage people. More than anything, our words should remind them of who God says they are. Let’s think of our words as a legacy, with the potential to still be having an impact years down the line.

What Now?

Who do you know that needs some encouragement today? Write them a note or send them an uplifting message, asking God to guide the words you use.