Build, Don’t Break: Choosing the right words is very important

Words Leave Lasting Impressions

We all know that our words have the power to build up or break down a person’s spirit. Yet, far too often, we underestimate just how deeply our words can wound—or heal.

I remember when I was about eight years old (yes, several decades ago!). I had an audition to join my school’s choir, and it was a HUGE deal to me. I practiced “Country Roads” countless times and proudly sang my heart out in front of my choir teacher. She seemed pleased, and I was thrilled when I was accepted into the choir.

One Comment Changed Everything

Then one morning, while singing alongside about 30 other girls, my teacher walked up to me and said, “I think you are tone deaf.”

To her, it may have been a passing comment. To me, it felt like a crushing blow.

At that age, I believed I was a fairly good singer and was proud to be part of the choir. Being singled out publicly left me embarrassed and deeply hurt. The impact of those few words stayed with me for years. Even when I sang in church, I would deliberately lower my voice, afraid that others might think the same thing.

Words spoken in a moment can linger in a heart for decades.

The Gift That Almost Stayed Hidden

Recently, I read an article about an author who experienced something similar. As a young student, he passionately wrote poetry and excitedly shared his work with a teacher. Instead of encouragement, he received a dismissive remark that his poems were “awful.”

Those words became a prison.

For years, he believed he wasn’t talented enough to share his writing with anyone. He continued writing only for himself until one day, a friend happened to read one of his poems. That friend offered simple but sincere encouragement. Those few uplifting words changed everything.

Eventually, his poems were published, allowing countless readers to enjoy the gift God had placed within him.

Encouragement Can Change a Life

What a beautiful reminder that words can either bury a gift or help it flourish.

A careless comment can silence a dream. A kind word can awaken purpose.

How many people are walking around today carrying wounds from negative words spoken years ago? And how many are thriving because someone believed in them enough to speak life into their hearts?

God’s Gifts Cannot Be Defined by Human Opinions

Although I still remember my choir experience vividly, I sing with much more confidence today. I may never be part of a choir, but I know that my voice is a gift from God, and no careless comment can take that away.

People may misjudge us. They may criticize us. They may even discourage us. But God’s purpose for our lives is not determined by someone’s opinion.

The Bible on the Power of Words

The Bible reminds us:

“The tongue has the power of life and death.” — Proverbs 18:21

God calls us to use our words as instruments of encouragement, hope, and healing.

What Are Your Words Building?

Every day, we have a choice. We can speak words that discourage, shame, and tear down, or we can speak words that inspire, encourage, and build up.

You may never know how much a single sentence can affect someone’s future. A careless comment can leave a scar for years. A word of encouragement can unlock a dream, restore confidence, and change a life.

A Special Word for Parents

Especially with our children, our words matter.

Labels like “stupid,” “useless,” or “good for nothing” can leave wounds that last far longer than we realize. Instead, speak life. Speak hope. Speak truth. Speak encouragement.

Children often become what they repeatedly hear about themselves.

Let’s use our words to help them grow into the people God created them to be.

Build, Don’t Break

Let’s be people whose words reflect God’s heart—words that strengthen, uplift, and inspire.

Choose words that BUILD.

Because one encouraging sentence can change a life forever.

LET’S GO BUILD!

Encourage one another and build each other up.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11

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