“You are loved, sweet friend.”
Recently, a dear friend – of the texting, encouraging variety – unexpectedly passed away. In my grief, I looked back to see what we had last “said” in our final text. These were the last words of mine that she read. Our words – texted, written, spoken, prayed, sung, shouted – hold enormous weight. God’s Word says in Proverbs 18:21 that “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…” (NKJV).
On many days I feel like I’m running behind, not accomplishing what I’d hoped; and if I’m honest, on a few of those days I feel almost powerless. But God’s Word declares otherwise! Every day, you and I choose how we wield this power by our words. Regrettably, some of our words echo anger, drip condescension, push hurt or shuffle insignificance to others. It must be understood that our words come from a much deeper place than a momentary feeling or emotion. Matthew records Jesus’ words: “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Matthew 12:34b NKJV).
I deeply desire to be life-giving with my words. I want others to feel seen, known and cherished after time spent with me, whatever the communication avenue. You too? Then we must look at our hearts. The only cure for our heart issues is found in the presence of our Creator. The qualities we most desire are found in the fruit of the Spirit – love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Gal. 5:22-23 NKJV). What we often miss? These are the fruit of the Spirit, not of our own making. So if I’m struggling to speak kindly, I need to spend more time with the Holy Spirit so kindness can develop and grow.
Words matter. Last words. First words. Everyday words. On your worst day, someone can be changed by your words. You and I choose whether our words destroy or bring life. As Christians, we know our words hold eternal significance. My dad, who is in Heaven now, spoke these words to me the last time I saw him and gave him a hug: “I’ll see you next time.” We never dreamed the “next time” would be in Heaven. His picture sits where I write, a reminder of his love for the Lord, heart for exhortation, his writing to encourage others, and his belief in my own writing future. His last words still encourage me; there will be a “next time.”
In this season of celebrating new life, we look to Resurrection Sunday, the hope and foundation of the Christian faith. What were Jesus’ final words on the cross? There are some fascinating Bible studies available on this topic, and we will not delve into all of Jesus’ final words here, but John 19:30 records “It is finished!” The work of atonement, reconciliation, sacrifice and salvation is finished. Only because of Christ’s work do our lives and words carry power. “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5 NKJV).
If you are reading this, but don’t have a relationship with this wonderful Savior and would like one, please contact me and let’s chat. I’d love to introduce you! For each of us, let’s examine our hearts and our words today to make sure they’re building and not destroying.
What words have held the greatest power in your life? Are there words that mean a lot to you still today? I’d love to hear your story in the comments!
This is beautiful, Lisa … Your words almost 18 years ago still hold strong in my spirit for encouragement: “It is God who arms me with strength, and makes my way perfect” (complete). Psalm 18:32
Lisa,what a beautiful, well written post. I especially liked how you shared your heart regarding your dad’s last words to you, as well as revealing a glimpse into his influence on you for your writing and your faith. Those words were very moving, and a great reminder that we will see our loved ones again, “next time”, in heaven. Words do matter. We often don’t know what our last words may be to someone. Another good reminder that we should measure our words carefully, always. A good reminder for us all.
Thank you, Lisa.
Thank you, Tava! Your words have blessed my life and continue to be life-giving for many people.
This was beautiful and written with gentle yet hard truths which brought waves of conviction to my soul. Knowing what a kind and tender heart you have for others (never intending to wound), I hesitated to even share that, haha! But see? It was a powerful reminder in an area I’ve struggled my entire life! Thank you. And… you never told us what those final texted words were to your friend & I’m sooo curious (& nosy,too)!
I’m glad you shared even through the hesitation! Know that the work is God’s, and He brings beautiful healing even in the wounding. As to the final words – since I’m so new at this, I must not have made it clear – those words were “You are loved, sweet friend.” Nothing profound but shared as a closing to our texted conversation that day.
Thanks for cheering me on – I’m cheering for you too!
Lisa, this is so beautiful!! When I first moved to Corpus, it was on my heart to put together bags for the homeless because I saw so many here in the area. One day, as I was waiting to turn in heavy traffic, I saw an older homeless man in a wheelchair, and I wondered how on earth would I be able to get one of these bags into his hand. When the light turned green, I thought to myself that I had one shot to get this bag to him. As I passed, I was able to get him the bag as the car was still moving. Feeling quite accomplished, I heard the Spirit so clearly, “What was his name?” My heart fell. How many times had others passed by just to give a homeless bag, but did he feel seen? Your words reminded of that moment when the Lord brought to my attention how just a caring greeting, or an acknowledgment of the person near us can really shift a person’s day. I was determined after that day that I would be intentional about making the other person feel seen and valued. I really love this post! What an amazing reminder to take the opportunities that God gives us every single day!
This is beautiful! Thank you for sharing that – a Godly reminder.
God’s Word says in Proverbs 18:21 that “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…” (NKJV).
I love this and is something I will keep close to my heart every day as a reminder. Thank you!
I get so caught up in all the tasks that need to be done and I often bark out orders to my family because my body and brain works on fast forward. Your post comes at the perfect for me.
Love you much!!
God’s Word says in Proverbs 18:21 that “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…” (NKJV).
I love this and is something I will keep close to my heart every day as a reminder. Thank you!
I get so caught up in all the tasks that need to be done and I often bark out orders to my family because my body and brain works on fast forward. Your post comes at the perfect for me.
Love you much!!
God’s Word is always timely! We are all in need of this reminder at times, aren’t we?