The Power of Words

Words are powerful. The words that we use either encourage and uplift people, or they bring them down. I myself have experienced both situations, and dished out both kind and not-so-kind words. I've called people "fat" to their face. On the contrast, I've also said encouraging words to people, like, "Good job," or "I like your outfit." On the flip side, others have said both kind and mean words to me. I often get called a "nun" by my brother; I take it as a compliment even though he says it in a derogatory manner. Just yesterday, someone said some encouraging words to me. This person rarely gives out compliments (at least, not that I know of), and I think he used to hate me at one point (I don't know, maybe he still does). But yesterday, he pointed out that something I had done, was the second thing that day he was proud of me for. Those kind, encouraging words from him have made me want to stay in his good graces. (Before, I had been thinking about hiding his markers again, but now I don't think I will.) Oh, the power of words. Again, I will say it- words are powerful. Will you use your words today to uplift or to bring down?

What would you take?

Imagine this...

Your house catches on fire during the middle of the night. You are allowed to grab one thing. What would you take?

This is something I was thinking about this morning when I read the parable of the rich fool. Luke 12:15 says, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."

My first thought was that I would take my laptop, since it was expensive, and I wouldn't want to lose something so valuable (money-wise). Then I started thinking of some other items I might take as well: my afghan, a photo of my grandma and grandpa, etc. Then, I realized how selfish I was being. The first thing I would do would be to make sure my laptop got saved. And yet, there are other people who live in my house. Shouldn't I make sure they get out before I even think about saving my laptop? How much more valuable is a human life than a laptop! (Matthew 6:26)

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:21)