“Talk to yourself like you would to someone you love.”
Brene Brown
Words are powerful. Proverbs 18:21a says, “The tongue has the power of life and death.” We’ve all been hurt by people’s careless words and even though we may have forgiven the offender, the hurtful words are often remembered years later. But what does God think about the disparaging words we say about ourselves?
In the past month I’ve had a few friends hold me accountable for the negative words I’ve said about myself. When I’ve spoken about my weaknesses in a way that puts me down, they have called me on it. After I left having lunch with one of them, God began to speak to me.
Stop selling yourself short. Because when you do, you’re selling Me short as well. When you put yourself down or highlight a weakness or negative habit in your life, it’s as if you’re saying that about Me. When you put yourself down, you’re putting Me down, because I, the Creator, lives within you. Ouch! God went on to say: Don’t use your weaknesses as an excuse to not fulfill My calling. For when I ask you to do something for Me, then I will equip you to do that. Don’t hide behind your weaknesses.
Joyce Meyer says, “Words are containers for power. You choose what kind of power they carry.” When I criticize and put myself down, then I have chosen words that have the power of death over me.
Years ago, I heard the quote, “God doesn’t make junk!” If I really believed that and had revelation that “I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful,” (Psalm 139:14), then I wouldn’t be quick to speak negatively about myself to myself or to others.
I’m so grateful God doesn’t let me get away with things that are not for my benefit. I’m thankful He calls me to account and convicts me of my sin. It’s His way to help me see myself as He sees me and to grow in self-acceptance and love. Let’s agree together to stop selling ourselves short.
“Take care how you speak to yourself, because you are listening.”
Anonymous
Relevant Reflections:
How have you seen the spoken word have the power of life and death?
In what ways do you put yourself down? Commit to cease doing that through prayer.
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