Words are the building blocks of creation. God spoke, and everything we see and don’t see began to exist. He released His words with precision and careful discretion to bridge the chasm between His eternal imagination and this new universe bounded by space and time. He holds Himself accountable for the outcome of each and every creative word He has issued, as well as those He refrained from uttering: “All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him not even one thing was made that has come into being.” (John 1:3 AMP)
What does this have to do with you and me? Among all the inhabitants of this universe, we have the unique distinction of having been made in the image and likeness of our creator, that is, to be like Him, to share and reflect His character. We are, like Him, creative beings. We are selectively able to bring out that which is hidden within us–in our imaginations and our thoughts–and, through our words, give it existence in our world of space and time, to be experienced and incorporated into the life of our fellow humans.
There are no “throw-away” words or so-called off-hand comments. Every spoken and written word creates. This is true no matter the medium, spoken word or written word, text message, social media post or comment. If it can be consumed by another human, it will create something in them: inspiration, outrage, appreciation, hurt, confusion, clarity, challenge, affirmation, indignation, gratitude, offense, acceptance, division, unity, encouragement, or diminishment. And each newly created thought, emotion, or revelation becomes a seed that will impact the future.
I understand that each of our ‘hearers’ is responsible for how they hear. But let’s own our end of our conversations, actual or virtual. It’s time for each of us who identify with Jesus, the Word made flesh, to accept responsibility for that which our words create. Let’s let go of our impulse to be thought ‘right’ in the eyes of men and women, and instead embrace our commission to be accurate representatives and effective ambassadors of our loving Savior.
“Walk in the wisdom of God as you live before the unbelievers, and make it your duty to make him known. Let every word you speak be drenched with grace and tempered with truth and clarity. For then you will be prepared to give a respectful answer to anyone who asks about your faith.” Colossians 4: 5-6 Passion
“And never let ugly or hateful words come from your mouth, but instead let your words become beautiful gifts that encourage others; do this by speaking words of grace to help them.” Ephesians 4:29 Passion