"Words matter! They have the power mysteriously to enter our hearts and minds and lift us beyond the present moment into the presence of God himself. How important it is, then, that we mothers, shepherds of our children's lives and hearts, choose our words to them carefully. We must deliberately aim our words at their hearts in such a way as to give our children hope, faith, strength, and also to point them toward the redeeming love of Christ. We can become the affirming voice of God to our children, just as we become a picture of his redeeming reality in their everyday lives."
-The Ministry of Motherhood
It's easy to become overwhelmed during the daily obstacles of life and let harsh words press through our lips. Sometimes it isn't even the words, exactly, as much as it is the condescending tones, volume, or sarcastic attitudes. As a mother and life-giver, God has entrusted you to vocalize His heart and intentions for your children. It is an extremely important responsibility to not only be the hands and feet of Jesus, but to also be his voice in your home.
Take a moment today to have a quiet time and bible study, reading over these verses and meditating on them, as well as the questions below.
"Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body." -Proverbs 16:24
"Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits." -Proverbs 18:21
"There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." -Proverbs 12:18
Ask yourself: -Where are you aiming your words? -What have your words been saying about what is on your heart? -What choices can you make today to affirm God's love to your children through the words you choose to speak over their lives?