Verbal Investments

Scripture: As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. Isaiah 53:10,11 NIV

Observation: Isaiah’s words tells us that we will get a return on our verbal investments.

Application: Isaiah isn’t just speaking here about positive speech returning positive results. He is speaking of all speech, both positive and negative. Our words have consequences. They will either edify or they will tear down. If we encourage another that person will try to encourage others and most likely flourish. Likewise, if we tear into them it will probably result in them being hostile to us and others. We will probably set in motion a chain-reaction of hostility and tension that ruin another’s day. As Christians we must guard our speech. A few weeks back our Lead Pastor spoke on this subject. Quite specifically he spoke about sarcasm, (to me). Christians, (exactly like me), need to watch the sarcasm. Even good-natured teasing can be harmful and hurtful and can cause to long-term harm to relationships.

Prayer: Father, help me to remember that my words can and probably do affect others in both positive and negative ways. Help me to guard my speech and speak only edifying words of encouragement. I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen

Doug