"Thank you!"
Do you what kind of difference that one little phrase makes? It could change a situation from a negative to a positive. It could change someone’s mind from doing something to stupid to living a good life for a change.
It only takes a little breath, a little effort, a very short bit of time, but it might be as powerful as a bomb going off. A bomb? Where did that come from?
James 3:5-6 NLT
In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. 6 And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.
Our tongues are powerful. But that doesn’t seem to make a lot of sense. When I eat ice, my tongue gets numb, and it is hard to talk. I remember going to the dentist, and it seemed that my tongue went to sleep when they worked on my teeth.
It really is about the words and intent more than it is about the tongue. But what comes out of our mouths says a lot about our hearts. In fact our motives and our desires are seen in what we say to one another.
It is how we most often build people up or tear them down. May we choose the positive, the stuff that gives help and be people of strength and truth and courage.
Proverbs 13:3 NLT
Those who control their tongue will have a long life; opening your mouth can ruin everything.
Our words can even control our destiny. Ever seen someone say something, and then a fight starts? The tongue and our words are powerful.
Proverbs 18:21 NLT
The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.
Yes. Consequences. It is true, and each of us knows that well.
As I was sitting across the table from some dear friends, I heard those words. “Thank you.” I had spent lots of time, energy and even money to pull off an event for about 10 families. I was tired. The days were sweet but long. I was getting word down. Then those words.
Those simple words said you time was worth it, the effort paid off, the work was appreciated and more. Just a simple “thank you.” That is all is took to change my mind and thinking, my heart and plans for another, and my outlook on the hours ahead. It changed.
Proverbs 15:5 NLT Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
Say thank you. Share some love. Use your words and your tongue to help others be stronger today. It will make a difference.
“Thank you!”
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