3:20 – Words Are Powerful

#faithbites #faithjourney words

Words are powerful. With a word we can lift up a person or tear someone down. We can show our love or our hate.

Through my life, I’m learning that we use the same word with different meanings. For instance, I wrote a #faithbite about coexisting with others. My meaning was we can all be kind to each other no matter our belief. Others use it to mean all the religions are interchangeable and anything goes. Very different meanings for the same word. Another example: In a Facebook discussion someone was using rhe word non-citizen to refer to someone who entered the countet illegally. Non-citizen can mean anyone here, legally or not, who is in our county.

Part of being a follower of Christ is understanding His Words and applying them to life. Much forgiveness is needed by all of us.

Scripture

• The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. – Psalm 119:130
• Making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding; yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. – Proverbs 2:2-5

Reflection

We have an opportunity to listen to what is being said and meant. This applies to our scripture reading and communicating with each other.

We know God will give us understanding. We just need to know when to ask for it, how to listen to it, and how to apply it.

It’s easy for us to believe we are right in how we use a word. We could even be right grammatically. We need to be open that not everyone has our same experiences or viewpoints. This csn lead to confusion. When that happens we need to explain, listen, and sometimes walk away till another day.

Challenge

Listen to what is said and what is meant. Ask clarifying questions. Sometimes, you will come to common ground, Othertimes, not. Keep trying.

Prayer

God, we know that words have different meaning. If I call you God, Lord, father, or any of a hundred titles, it is still you. Help us are we navigate this word and use different meanings for the same words. Give us patience and clarity. Help hs to always be kind. In your name, Amen.