Speak Wisely

Words are powerful! If you don’t believe it, remember what the Bible says: “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and by the breath of His mouth all their host. For He spoke, and it was done, He commanded, and it stood fast.” Psalm 33:6, 9 (NASB). Indeed, words are significant. Words have moved nations to war. Words have comforted in times of loss and words have shaped the hearts of men and women for centuries.

And it is the power of words that become a seed in the hearts and minds of children. These words can either be for good or bad. One’s choice of words and their tone will often shape the viewpoint and character of a child.

My grandfather was a great modeler of words. Words of encouragement. Words of kindness. Words of Jesus. Especially Jesus! He would often speak of the loveliness of Jesus. He would relate the stories of the Bible in such vivid words that I could imagine what it was as if I had been there.

Grandpa was never afraid to speak words that would cause you to think and ask questions. And when you would ask questions, he rarely would give you an answer; instead he would ask, “What would Jesus do?” And then we would look up Bible verses and discover the answer from the Bible. While it is true that many young children growing up want to be a doctor, fireman or policeman, my grandfather made such an impression on me that I heard the call to ministry at a very young age.

As a young minister, he gave me much encouragement through his words and his actions. He reminded me not to be worried about my youth, but keep looking to Jesus and keep following Him! Great counsel!

His words not only affected me but have been passed on to my sons and many other young folk along the way. I am enjoying in others what grandpa saw in me long ago.

The words of Paul to Timothy still make sense today. “Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith and your purity!” Timothy 4:12 (NLT).

May you also plant words of Jesus that will spring up in the lives of young folk, that will become the motivation to serve the Master for life.

By Richard C. Dye, Sr. President