Each Word a Gift

Now, as you all know, I've been going through one of those annoyingly rough periods in my life. Many times I've asked God why things are this way, why I feel so alone, and mainly why it seems like everyone in my life has something to criticise me about.

And last night I found the answer. You know, I used to be a horribly critical person. I was always telling people what was wrong, pointing out flaws, reminding them that their bad behavior was bad... (as if they didn't know?!) and just generally using my mouth to tear others down.

But in the last year, suddenly everything changed! Suddenly the shoe was on the other foot, and let me tell you that I have CHANGED!!! Critical people absolutely drive me nuts now. I've been REALLY watching what I say and how I say it anymore... because no one likes to be criticized, and it does WAY more harm than good. Criticism brings people down, hurts their feelings, shatters their self-esteem...

I want the words I say to lift people up, to encourage them, to give them hope and build their self-esteem.

Ephesians 4:29 says this: "Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift." (The Message)

Is that not the most awesome thought? "Each word a gift." That's my prayer today. Let my words be something others will treasure in the hard times in their lives... not haunting echoes reminding them of all their failures.