The Power of Words

Words are an integral part of our daily lives, and we often underestimate their power. In a recent sermon at Hope Church, Jared Jefferis, the director of student ministry, delved into the Book of James to explore the relationship between words and the pressures we face in life. Drawing parallels between construction tools like excavators and the power of words, Jared shared valuable insights on how to use our words to build up rather than tear down.

Words are integral to our daily lives, and we often underestimate their power. In a recent sermon at Hope Church, Jared Jeffes, the director of student ministry, delved into the Book of James to explore the relationship between words and the pressures we face in life. Drawing parallels between construction tools like excavators and the power of words, Jared shared valuable insights on how to use our words to build up rather than tear down.

The Power of Words
Jared began by expressing his love for construction and the powerful tools used in the industry, such as excavators. Just as these machines can be used to build incredible structures or demolish them, our words have the power to build up or tear down. Proverbs 18:21 states, "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." This verse highlights our words' immense power and their impact on ourselves and others.

Pressure Points and Words
Jared discussed two ways in which pressure and words are related. First, pressure points can lead to words that reveal our hearts. When we experience stress and difficulties, what comes out of our mouths reflects what is in our hearts. As Jesus said in Matthew 12:34, "For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks."

Second, our words can escalate or alleviate life's pressure points. A gentle answer can turn away wrath, while harsh words stir up anger (Proverbs 15:1). Jared shared a personal example of how a simple argument over a water filter escalated due to harsh words, emphasizing the importance of being mindful of how we communicate, especially during stressful situations.

Sobering Perspectives on Words
Diving into James 3, Jared highlighted three sobering perspectives on words:

1. Words are hard, and we all make mistakes with them. James 3:2 states, "We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect can keep their whole body in check." Recognizing that we all struggle with our words can help us extend grace to others and ourselves when we fall short.
2. Words are powerful; small words can have a significant impact. James compares the tongue to a small rudder that steers a large ship and a tiny spark that can ablaze a great forest. Our words, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can have far-reaching consequences.
3. Words are untameable; no one can control their words alone. James 3:8 declares, "No human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison." This truth highlights our need for God's help in controlling our words.

Hope and Help in Jesus
While the realities of our words can be discouraging, Jared emphasized that there is hope and help in Jesus. Our words can be forgiven and controlled with Jesus' help. Romans 8:1 reminds us, "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." When we confess Jesus as Lord and believe in His resurrection, we receive forgiveness for our sins, including misusing our words.

Moreover, 2 Peter 1:3 tells us that God's divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life. With Jesus, we have the power to use our words for good and to control our tongues.

Practical Guidelines for Using Words
Jared provided three practical guidelines for using our words in a way that honors God and builds others up:

1. Words should be used for building up, as stated in Ephesians 4:29. We should speak words that give grace to those who hear, encouraging and edifying others.
2. Words can be forgiven and controlled through Jesus by confessing Him as Lord and believing in His resurrection. When we submit our lives and words to Jesus, He can transform our hearts and give us the strength to use our words wisely.
3. Words should be filtered through God's wisdom, which is pure, peace-loving, gentle, humble, merciful, and accompanied by good deeds (James 3:17). By internalizing God's wisdom and allowing it to guide our words, we can speak in a way that reflects His character.

Gaining Wisdom
To gain the wisdom needed to use our words effectively, Jared encouraged the congregation to:

1. Read the Bible and pray daily. Spending time in God's Word and communicating with Him can transform our perspectives and help us align our words with His will.
2. Spend time with godly people. Surrounding ourselves with individuals who seek to honor God with their words can provide encouragement, accountability, and wisdom.
3. Ask God for wisdom. James 1:5 promises that if we ask God for wisdom, He will generously give it to us.

Putting It into Practice
In conclusion, Jared urged the congregation to put what they learned into practice. Just as construction tools are only effective when used, our knowledge of God's Word must be applied to our lives to make a difference. He encouraged listeners to consider memorizing verses, seeking forgiveness for hurtful words, writing encouraging notes to others, and relying on God to help control and guide their words.

The power of words cannot be overstated. As followers of Christ, we have the responsibility and privilege to use our words to build others up, reflect God's character, and navigate life's pressures with grace and wisdom. By submitting our words to Jesus, seeking His forgiveness and help, and actively applying the truths of Scripture, we can experience the life-giving power of words and positively impact those around us.

Let us commit to being mindful of our words, filtering them through God's wisdom, and relying on His strength to use our words for His glory. As Psalm 19:14 says, "May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer."