Bart Starr was probably the greatest encourager in NFL history. A Hall-of-Fame quarterback, he used encouraging words to motivate and inspire his team to greatness. Bart realized the importance timely, comforting remarks can have on a person’s perspective and performance. While football was a very important part of Bart’s life, his family was his central focus. During the season he’d try to stay updated with the kids’ activities by reviewing their homework and tests every week. If a paper was particularly good, he’d tape a dime to the work and write a note: “I Love You, and I’m Proud of You!”
In 1965 Bart had a bad game against the St. Louis Cardinals. Most of America’s football audience was glued to their televisions. The Green Bay quarterback fumbled a few times and, in the last minutes, threw an interception that cost his team the victory. That night the team flew back to Green Bay. Bart got home late and found a note stuck on the refrigerator door: “Dad, I saw your game today. I want you to know I love you, and I’m still proud of you—Bart Jr.” These words of encouragement had a powerful impact on Bart, his family, and the Green Bay Packers.
No doubt—words are powerful. Jesus used the power of words to spread the Good News. He used parables to convey principles of God’s Kingdom. He used words of forgiveness and mercy to heal. He used words to challenge, instruct, and inspire His disciples to miraculous faith. And today His words still give us tremendous hope and comfort.
Encouraging words comfort, inspire, motivate, and give life, but harsh words discourage and destroy. Our tongues, though just a little muscle, have enormous power for both good and evil.
How many children have been shamed and lost hope? How many wives have lost their self-respect and ability to love? How many athletes have lost their “fight” because of constant criticism? “Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” (Proverbs 12:18)
Do our words give life? Do they inspire and challenge others to greatness? Do they bring comfort and healing? Do they lead others to forgiveness and reconciliation with Christ? We either send a message of hope or despair. Let’s choose to speak love to a discouraged world. “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.” (Ephesians 4:29)
Scripture Reading: James 3:5-10
Personal Application: In what relationships or areas of your life do you struggle most regarding your tongue? Ask the Lord to help you tame your tongue and let your words be life-giving today and every day.
Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5