Words matter

Bob Russell July 29, 2025

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Pastor Randy Nash recently sent me the manuscript of his new book, Words Matter. As I read through it, I was reminded once again of the incredible power of words.

We all know the childhood chant, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me." But we also know that, as much as we'd like it to be true, it simply isn't. I can still see children sobbing while repeating those words, desperately trying to stand against the ugly names they'd been called.

The truth is, words can wound deeply. Even as adults, a mocking nickname or a sarcastic remark from someone we respect can linger painfully for decades.

Solomon wisely observed, "The words of the reckless pierce like swords…"

Yet Solomon promoted the restorative power of words within that same verse "…but the tongue of the wise brings healing" (Proverbs 12:18).

While words can hurt deeply, they can also heal dramatically.

A few encouraging words to a child from a parent, teacher, or coach can stay with them and forever impact their lives. Solomon further described encouraging words as, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver" (Prov. 25:11).

Words carry tremendous power!

Ever since God first said, "Let there be light," words have profoundly shaped human history.

Jesus simply said, "Peace, be still," and a raging storm ceased instantly.

He gently spoke, "Get up, little girl," and immediately the lifeless body of a 12-year-old joyfully embraced her parents.

Simon Peter used convicting words to preach the gospel on the Day of Pentecost, and three thousand souls responded, were baptized, and the Church of Jesus Christ was born.

Words also carry dangerous power. James warned us to "Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell" (James 3:5-6).

And Jesus issued a sobering reminder, "…everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned" (Matt. 12:36-37).

Clearly, words matter deeply to God—and they should matter deeply to us as God's people.

Today, through technology, the power of words is amplified. From emails to social media posts, from phone calls to everyday conversations, our words travel faster and farther than ever before. But this speed often comes at the cost of clarity and understanding.

Without the helpful cues of body language and tone, misunderstandings easily occur. Who hasn't regretted or apologized for unintentionally causing hurt with words hastily typed or carelessly posted?

In his book, Words Matter, Randy Nash emphasizes that it's not only what we say but also how we say it that matters. Scripture cautions us not to speak in haste but rather to thoughtfully consider how our words honor God and build others up.

Every word we speak or write has the power to bring life or cause harm, whether communicated directly or through social media. Let us remember the words of the Apostle Paul, who admonishes: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen" (Eph. 4:29).

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Bob Russell became the pastor of Southeast Christian Church at just 22 years old. That small congregation of 120 members became one of the largest churches in America, with 18,000 people attending the four worship services every weekend in 2006 when Bob retired. Now through Bob Russell Ministries, Bob continues to preach at churches; conferences throughout the United States, provide guidance for church leadership, mentor other ministers and author Bible study videos for use in small groups. Learn More »

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