I am reminded of an old childhood saying, “Sticks and stones can break your bones but names will never hurt you.” Is there any truth in that? Inquiring minds want to know.
What does God have to say about the power of words? He certainly is not silent on this issue. In James 3:9, we find the following: “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing.” Yes, words can be destructive.
Consider the possible outcome of a child who has always been told by his/her parents that they will never amount to anything. Over time the self-image and self-esteem of that child become greatly diminished as he/she begins to believe what they have been told by their parents. These repeated harmful words potentially put that child down a pathway of depression, poor decision-making, anger, bitterness, underachievement, a life of crime or perhaps even suicide.
Note 2 self: Just imagine being on the receiving end of the following words from God reflected in Matthew 25:41: “Then he will say to those on his left. ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” That is the most hurtful statement that can ever be said to a human being. So, to the question, can words be verbal dynamite? Without a doubt, they certainly can!
Blessings to you all, my friends.
Daniel
The Note 2 Self Guy