Your Words Matter: The Power of Speaking Truth in Love
Words have the power to build up, heal, and connect—but they can also harm, divide, and destroy. Scripture reminds us of the incredible responsibility we have with our words. Ephesians 4:29 (ESV) says:
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
This verse isn’t just about avoiding harmful speech; it’s a call to use our words intentionally to bless and uplift others. But how do we live this out, especially in a culture that often encourages superficial conversations?
Creating a Space for Authenticity
Every Tuesday morning, I host a men’s Bible study at the church. Our goal is simple but profound: to become men of integrity and honesty. To achieve this, we’ve committed to creating a trusted environment where we can share not just the surface-level 97% of our lives but also the final 3%—the hidden struggles and burdens we often keep to ourselves.
Why is this important? James 5:16 (ESV) offers a clear answer:
“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.”
Confession and prayer go hand in hand. But true confession requires humility—a willingness to share the brutal facts of our lives, not just vague acknowledgments of struggle. James 4:6 (ESV) reinforces this:
*”But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, ‘God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'”
Humility unlocks God’s grace. It’s not enough to say, “I struggled last week.” Real confession is about naming the struggle, being honest about the depth of the issue, and inviting others to walk with us in prayer and accountability. This is how healing begins.
The Gift of Vulnerable Words
When we share the truth about our lives with trusted friends, something surprising happens: they’re drawn closer to us, not repelled. It’s counterintuitive, but vulnerability fosters connection. Why? Because our honest words are gifts. Proverbs 20:5 (ESV) captures this dynamic beautifully:
“The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.”
When we share the deep waters of our hearts, we’re trusting others with a piece of ourselves. A true, godly friend will honor that trust, accept us as we are, and pray for us. These kinds of relationships require time, humility, and commitment—but they’re worth it.
Practical Steps to Live This Out
- Identify Your Trusted Friends: Who are the two or three people in your life you can share everything with? These should be individuals who will listen without judgment, pray for you, and encourage you in your walk with God.
- Take the Initiative: Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Schedule time with these friends this week to share the deep waters of your heart—your hurts, struggles, and even your sinfulness.
- Be a Friend of Understanding: Make it your mission to draw out the deep waters in others. Ask thoughtful questions, listen well, and respond with grace and acceptance.
- Speak Words of Life: Be intentional with your words, using them to build up and give grace to those who hear. Remember, your words have the power to heal and restore.
Experience God’s Grace Together
Terry Porter is an Executive Life Coach. Working with clients to clarify and pursue their life dreams.
When we live out these principles, we experience the beauty of God’s design for relationships. Confession, prayer, and vulnerability create space for grace to flow. So, take time this week to use your words as gifts. Build deeper connections, speak life into others, and watch how God works through your intentionality.
Your words matter. Use them to reflect God’s love and bring His grace into the lives of those around you.
