A couple months ago, my daughter and I were having a conversation when she made a statement that stuck with me. She shared with me that her husband has said, “I wish you could see yourself through my eyes, then you would realize you are beautiful, just the way you are.” Those words stayed with me for days, and I wasn’t sure why. Then God began to show me.
Over two decades ago, there was a person I was very close to. They said some derogatory things about my appearance that stuck with me. I realized after hearing the words Breanne shared that I was seeing myself through their eyes – and had been seeing myself that way for over twenty years.
It was an eye-opening moment to say the least.
The Bible says, Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (Prov 18:21) Let’s look at some other scriptures about the power of our tongue.
A gentle tongue [with its healing power] is a tree of life, but willful contrariness in it breaks down the spirit. (Prov 15:4, AMP)
There are those who speak rashly, like the piercing of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. (Prov 12:18)
Words can build up or tear down. Words can hurt and they can heal. Once spoken, they can’t be taken back. Sure, you can repent. You can ask for forgiveness, but those words are still there. That is why it is so important to use our words wisely. Not only to declare the promises of God. But also, in the way we speak to others, especially those we claim to love and care for.
Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. (Eph 4:29)
As Christians, we are to speak words to encourage, to help and never to abuse. James 3:10 says it best.
Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so.
These things ought not to be so. We cannot be okay with speaking the word of God one moment and then cutting down someone with our words in the next breath. That is not okay. It’s not good to praise God with our lips and demean someone with the same mouth.
We must use our words wisely, with love, compassion, understanding and mercy. That’s what we desire for ourselves right?
Also, when you see yourself, don’t view who you are or how you look by what someone else thinks. See yourself as God sees you. Just as you see others through the eyes of love, see yourself in the same manner.
My friends, think about your words before you speak them. Speak life over your children, speak life TO YOUR CHILDREN. Speak love to those you love. Never abuse them with your words. I can promise you they will remember your words long after they are spoken.
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable and pleasing to God. That is my prayer for me and for you.
