Words have incredible power to bring both life and death into our lives, as stated in Proverbs 18:21. The impact of our words goes far beyond just emotional effects - they can actually influence us psychologically and physiologically.

How Do Negative Words Impact Us?

Negative words can:

  • Increase stress and anxiety by triggering the brain's fear center.

  • Lower self-esteem and create negative self-image

  • Reinforce negative thought patters

  • Impair cognitive function and logical reasoning

  • Cause emotional distress and negative emotions

  • rigger harmful hormonal changes

  • Disrupt normal brain function

Why Do People Speak Negative Words?

There are several common reasons people may speak negative words over others:

  1. Fear of being upstaged - They want to keep others in their shadow.

  2. Making others feel insignificant - Attempting to diminish someone's God-given potential

  3. Attacking perceived weaknesses - Often projecting their own insecurities

  4. Making accusations to discredit - Trying to diminish someone's accomplishments or calling

How Should We Respond to Negative Words?

The biblical example of David provides two key responses:

  • Turn away from negativity - Physically and emotionally distance yourself from harmful words.

  • Wait for the right timing - Don't engage every battle; wait for God's invitation

Who Should We Let Speak Into Our Lives?

The best people to receive words from are those who:

  • Truly love you

  • Aren't overly impressed with you

  • Can provide constructive criticism

  • Have your best interests at heart

Life Application

This week, consider:

  • What negative words are you currently engaging with that have you fighting the wrong battles.

  • Are you speaking life or death to others around you?

  • Who have you given permission to speak into your life? Are they the right voices?

Challenge: Identify one negative word that has been spoken over you and actively work to replace it with truth. Additionally, make a conscious effort to speak words of life and encouragement to at least one person each day this week.

Remember: You have a God-given purpose that negative words cannot derail. Choose to engage with words that align with your calling rather than those that distract you from it.

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