In a previous post, I referred to a scientific study regarding the number of words men and women speak in a day.  The research indicated men and women speak the same. In fact, quite a bit!  Yep, 16,000 words.

Whatever the accuracy of this study, it is worth noting the power of words.  Words can make or break you and/or others. It is crucial to healthy relationships that words are used wisely. Words can edify and empower others to do great things and build confidence. On the contrary, words can destroy, discourage, or derail you and others from achieving your dreams and living to the fullest potential.

Ask yourself:  If I utter 16,000 words a day, what is the ratio between positive to negative words? Am I being constructive or destructive? Am I inspiring or discouraging? Or am I even making sense with these words?

In like manner, what words are you receiving and consuming through the day? Are these words fulfilling, meaningful, empowering? Are they filled with joy, anger, or deception? Make a note that whatever comes into your mind can potentially find a place in your heart.

See what Jesus said about words: “How do you suppose what you say is worth anything when you are so foul-minded? It’s your heart, not the dictionary, that gives meaning to your words. A good person produces good deeds and words season after season. An evil person is a blight on the orchard. Let me tell you something: Every one of these careless words is going to come back to haunt you. There will be a time of Reckoning. Words are powerful; take them seriously. Words can be your salvation. Words can also be your damnation (Matthew 12:34-37, The Message).”  

The mouth speaks from the abundance of the heart. What words are coming out of your self?

Wherever you are along the journey, words can have a profound effect on your state of mind and your spirit.