“The word of God is living and effective, discerning reflections and thoughts of the heart.” At times we seek each other out to ask and say, “May I have a word with you?” Unfortunately, a word turns into two words then into an argument, a correction, a statement, or a point that needs to be made and a tone that must be taken. An exchange of words can be exciting, encouraging or simply frustrating. Words can be used to provide information, give direction, assist in formation, offer a gentle correction, or simply inspire the gift and grace of hope or spiritual wellbeing. Words unfortunately can be used as weapons and tools of deception, false accusations, saying a curse rather than offering a blessing. Words can entrap rather than provide an easy way out. We can even use our bodies to communicate a word, make a statement, or lead another to react or respond. We use signs to communicate our language, our bodies to communicate our desires and our mouths to share our thoughts. So many words to say and utter. So many thoughts to express and offer. We speak when not spoken to. We say what is not necessary. We offer opinions, say, “I told you so,” we indicate all our emotions and express all our feelings Words are even being exchanged when we are silent. Unspoken words of the mind, indecent thoughts and proposals, backtalk and disobedience under our breath, a harsh judgement and the critical name calling. So many opportunities to have a word with one another. Gossip at strange tables, the envy of persons, the jealousy between siblings, the put down, the letdown by another. Thankful that God has only one word to say, Jesus. In Jesus, God’s one Word was made visible, audible, communicable, irresistible. The Word of God is alive, breathing, affective. When God speaks things happen, light, love, life, all creation. God’s Word can create from nothing, heal what is broken, restore what was stolen, renew what was lost, raise those fallen and even forgive all sins. God’s Word needs to be heard not drowned out or pushed or tossed to the side. God’s Word needs to be read not abandoned, neglected, or forgotten. God’s Word needs to be shared more than your own thoughts, words, opinions, or desires. God’s Word is needed in this world that is grossly competing to be heard. Let us stop speaking so many words and begin to silently pray by believing that God is more important and has something more important to say.
