Every Word Matters

“But I tell you, on the day of judgment people will have to give an accounting for every careless or useless word they speak.” Matthew 12:36 AMP

The words spoken by Jesus about words serve as a profound warning to us. The phrase “each word” is particularly striking. Some surveys have shown the following statistics. While they may not be 100% accurate, they provide insight into the vast number of words we speak daily. Just imagine how many of those words might be careless or unconsidered:

• The average person speaks approximately 16,000 words per day in real-life conversations.

• Women tend to speak slightly more than men, with the average woman speaking around 16,215 words a day, while the average man speaks about 15,669 words.

In some workplaces and certain cultural settings, the casual use of foul language has become normalized. Especially among some younger people, the frequent use of curse words and double-meaning expressions is often seen as a badge of honour. Mocking others or making fun of them is viewed as a form of humour by some. However, if we truly reflect on the fact that we are accountable before God for every word we speak, it should lead us to repentance and inspire a transformation in how we use our words. Every word you speak creates an atmosphere around you. Sometimes, when you enter a place, you can sense the weight of the words spoken there repeatedly in its atmosphere. The reality you are experiencing today is the result of the words you spoke in the past, and the words you speak today will shape the reality you experience tomorrow.

Each word we use graciously can be a gift to bless and build others. Evil and corrupt words, on the other hand, are like weapons of destruction. Words are powerful, but the words spoken from the mouth of the anointed carry great authority, power, and influence. Children of God should be very careful with their words. Those in positions of influence, in particular, should be extra conscious of what they say. The source from which we draw makes all the difference. If we draw from the flesh, our hearts and words become poisonous. But if we draw from the Word of God, which is the Life of God, our hearts and words overflow with life. The soul experiences true freedom in the Presence of God. Where God's presence dwells, there is peace, joy, and unity. However, when words of argument, conflict, and curses fill a home, the Holy Spirit cannot move freely in such an atmosphere. Fill your home with the Word of God, praise, and worship, and you will experience the manifested presence of God in your home. The Presence of God is the key to peace, protection, and prosperity.

Norman Vincent Peale wrote, "Shoot an injection of faith into every conversation." This powerful statement reminds us of our calling to leave a lasting impact on those we encounter. As children of God, our words should be full of grace and seasoned with purpose, much like salt brings flavour. As ambassadors of Christ, we are called to reflect the values of His kingdom, making a meaningful difference in the world through the way we speak.

"As ambassadors of Christ, we are entrusted with representing the culture of His Kingdom. Our words must reflect the values of that Kingdom."

This blog is an excerpt from the book The Power of Your Words. To read the full book and discover more powerful insights, click on the book picture below and purchase the PDF version of The Power of Your Words.