The House We Build with Words

Ephesians 5:18-20; Colossians 3:15-17

Recently, I saw a quote that made me stop in my tracks: "The words you speak become the house you live in.” And it made me ask myself, how often am I evaluating what I say? What are the words that guide my life? How is what I am saying regularly affecting those around me? What words am I listening to on a daily basis?

I spend most of my days caring for young children, saying things like “don’t touch that.” “Don’t hit your sister.” “You can’t have a snack until you eat your lunch.” I spend many of my nights exhausted on the couch, often consuming words like, “These are the Amazon must-haves you need…” “This (insert random TikTok item) will make your life so much easier.” I listen to audiobooks and podcasts that serve no purpose but entertainment. I am constantly consuming, but am I consuming that which will bring true life? So here again, I ask myself, what type of house am I building with my words?

Lacking intentionality with my words isn’t building a house that brings Glory to the Lord, but it’s building a house full of negativity, consumerism, and discontentment. Notice the stark contrast between that and the scripture we read today, “Be filled with the spirit, speaking to one another with Psalms, Hymns, and songs of the spirit…” “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts… And be thankful.”

God doesn’t ask us to be grateful and encouraging with our words just because it benefits Him but because it benefits us as well. The words we speak have a direct impact on our hearts and those around us. Imagine how different your day would look if, instead of grumbling about challenges or inconveniences, you gave thanks to the Lord for the strength to persevere. How different would your friendships look if you intentionally encouraged your friends with scripture?

So now, what type of house are you building with your words?

Would the Word of God be the solid ground you build your house upon, unshakable and full of life?