People do a lot of talking. Research by Louann Brizendine at the University of California found that women speak an average of 20,000 words daily compared to only 7,000 words for men. I am not sure if this study is really accurate but, it does confirm the fact that we all use a lot of words in our average day, week, or year. The question is what is the overall message our words are promoting? Are your words building others up or tearing others down? Are your words engaged in meaningful messages or in misaligned in mundane matters? God’s Word teaches that what we say matters. Your words matter to God, they matter to others, and they should matter to you. Instead of counting the number of words we use, we should ensure that our words really count.

How can you make your words count?

Realize that controlling your words is an intentional choice.
Psalm 17:3 says, “I am determined not to sin in what I say.” Speaking the right thing is a predetermined decision. Making your words count is not an activity you notice looking backwards but is a decision you make when considering going forward.

Intentionally build each other up by what you say.
Ephesians 4:29 says, “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.” Your words allow you to deliver hope and help to those in need of God’s grace and strength. Your words are part of God’s strategic plan to bring His presence into people’s lives. Romans 14:19 says, “So then, let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”

Evaluate your words.
Your words are a window to your heart. Jesus said in Matthew 12:34, “You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good. For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.” When what comes out of our mouths is bitter, it is a huge indication that what is inside of us is infected.

Today’s Challenge: Ask God to help you make your words count by speaking things that matter and things that bring His help to people’s lives. Examine the source of your words. If what flows out of you is not uplifting, then prayerfully consider what is flowing into your life.

If you are in the Camden area, join us at CFA tonight as I give two more powerful ways to make your words count.