Words have power; they have strength.

God’s Word warns us that the tongue is able to build up… or it can destroy.

As I look back over 2013, I have been thinking about words that have changed my world — some for good, and some… not so much. Here are few that changed my world in 2013:

• I think you need a hug…
• As Christians we often talk about developing a “personal relationship” with Christ, but instead of pursuing a relationship, we pursue knowledge (Leonard Sweet)…
• You challenged my son…
• The scores aren’t as high as we wanted them to be…
• Goodbye, Grandma…
• There’s been an accident…
• Please pray for our boys…
• Goodbye Reid…
• I have questions for the coach…
• God is working in this place — look at who we use to be, see who we are…
• We came to minister and as always, we’ve been blessed and ministered to…
• Don’t postpone the joy…
• They are closing us down…
• Can I pray for you?

It’s been quite a year. A year of highs and lows. But then, aren’t most years? As I’ve come to the end of this year, I feel hopeful and positive. Yet in some ways, there is a sense of defeat that is floating around the edges. Even in the difficulties and the challenges, I’ve seen and sensed God’s hand working. Knowing that He is working makes even the hardest days bearable. In the midst of those hard days, it seems as though God places jewels — nuggets of encouragement and hope.

Sometimes those nuggets exist in nature — a sunrise, a snow covered mountain, a frolicking fox, a beautiful eagle flying overhead, leaves dancing in the wind. Often, they are found in the words and actions of others — a hug, a smile, a child’s laughter, a phone call, a friend’s words in prayer. The gift of music can also bring those jewels to mind — “What if your blessing comes through raindrops; what if Your healing comes through tears? What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You’re near?” (“Blessings” performed by Laura Story). And more importantly, God uses His Word to make the difference — “I am leaving you with a gift–peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” John 14:27, New Living Translation.

As I’ve been challenged and blessed by words in 2013, I want to start 2014 with God’s words and with a renewed challenge and along with that, a blessing.

“And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

-Micah 6:8, NIV.