Our mind is a garden, our thoughts are the seeds
The harvest can be either flowers or weeds.
~ Author unknown
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
~ Philippians 4:8
I am beginning a new study this week for young moms in our group focusing on the words we use and harnessing the power we possess in our speech. Harnessing, not stifling. As in:
Now if we put the horses' bridles into their mouths, that they may obey us, we turn about their whole body also.
~James 3:3
Never doubt that something as simple as talking can have such lasting effects in the lives of others. As we habitually speak words that heal, teach, affirm, instruct, guide and delight, we learn to make conscious choices about our words which then become a natural outpouring of what is in our hearts. Likewise, words of condemnation, of name-calling, labeling and blaming wound the heart and linger in the mind long after they are spoken.
Our challenge is to learn something new about how we take appropriate responsibility for this dynamic and grow in faithfulness as we mature. We want to reduce the collateral damage from our speech and live life with fewer regrets. This is one small topic but large area of life that meets us daily where we live.
It's all about choices. Let us take responsibility for our choices and not be content with the childish, "That's just the way I am" excuse.
All photos copyright by Rob Kiser, used with permission.
what a great study! words are such a powerful part of life and can make such meaningful impacts (both positive and negative).
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