Words

The word of God is living and active (Hebrews 4:12).

Words are powerful things. They can cause serious injury.  A child who is constantly told that he is stupid, ugly or worthless will eventually believe those words, even if they’re not true.  He will grow up with no sense of value or purpose and might seriously consider taking his own life.  Words can also whip up violent emotions.  Adolph Hitler used words to turn a demoralized Germany into a militaristic nation to be feared on a global scale.  Words can trigger riots, as we’ve seen in the Middle East.  Words can turn a group of people into a lynch mob that ruthlessly attacks the object of its hatred.

Words can also inspire greatness.  A youngster who is told how talented and loved she is, can overcome almost any challenge and experience a life that is happy and fulfilling.  Words of support and encouragement can provide that little bit of lift that is needed to finish a tough project or find a new solution to a long-standing problem.  President Kennedy used words to inspire America into visiting the moon and walking on its surface, a project that many believed was impossible.  Words spoken in a legal setting can free people from oppression and guarantee their rights.  Words of diplomacy can end conflict and bring about peace.

When Jesus came to live among us, He spoke the very words of God.  Those words ended storms, drove out demons, ended disability and chronic disease.  The words of Christ even called the dead back to life.  The word of God has the power to change reality.

But even more important is how the Son of God used words to change lives.  His words made the proud realize their shortcomings and repent.  His words brought love and hope to the lonely and despairing.  His words gave the peace and joy of forgiveness to people burdened by their guilt.  His words connected the lost and damned to the God of grace and mercy, replacing the threat of hell with the promise of heaven.

Jesus’ words still echo among us—He caused them to be written in the Bible so they can impact our world today.  If you don’t already, make time for reading or hearing God’s words—they deserve a hearing, because they have the power to change your life as well.