We all know words mean something. They can tear down or build up. They have so much power because of the source from which they flow. When someone speaks words of hate or anger, it is even more painful when you know those words are from the person’s heart, mind, and part of their true feelings. The same goes for kindness and encouragement. When you know someone truly means the words they express, it takes on a whole new meaning. We will often tell someone to consider the source when we hear news. What source does it come from? Understanding the source changes things. Our words often are sourced from our heart, from our deep longings and deep hurts. It could be the words we speak or type are fueled from the hatred or anger we have long buried yet keeps reappearing when we are challenged.
Words seem to mean more now than ever. We are having much less face to face interaction. When we are in person, our expressions are covered (for the most part – eye rolling still noted). Our main communication is through typing or phone calls, Zoom calls or Facetime. In these formats, words take on an even stronger position. They carry more weight. They are more important than ever.
Considering this, genuine words of kindness and encouragement are so desperately needed. We need to lift up our brothers and sisters. We need to truly care about one another and reach out, giving someone else the boost to keep moving forward. These are difficult times for us all. No one is immune from the repercussions of this pandemic. Since we are all struggling in some way, wouldn’t it be better to lift each other up rather than tear each other down? And if we are having a difficult time doing that (or doing it genuinely), maybe it is time to consider the source from which our words flow. Is it that our heart is filled with things which stain our whole body? Is it that our whole beings are soiled by the filth of hatred or anger? Could it be our words are speaking loudly about the distress we are feeling inside?
May our source be pure. May our words be encouraging, kind and loving. May our speech be genuine. May we live as Christ.
Focus Scripture:
James 3:10-12
10 From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this ought not to be so. 11 Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and brackish water? 12 Can a fig tree, my brothers and sisters, yield olives, or a grapevine figs? No more can salt water yield fresh.
Photos included in Devotions are captured by David Cain – The Cain Gallery. Photos are available for sale by contacting The Cain Gallery
SEEING THE EXTRAORDINARY 