Understanding the Power of Words and the Call to Uplift
America, a country professed to be built on the ideals of freedom, unity, and hope, has in recent years found itself struggling with division and darkness. One of the main causes of this shift is the way we talk to and about each other. Negative, hateful language—what we can call “vitriol”—has become all too common in our public conversations, media, and even daily life. But what does this mean for us as a nation, and why does it matter so much?
The Weight of Our Words
It’s easy to think that words are just words—they come and they go, and once spoken, they’re gone. But the truth is, words are powerful. They shape how we see the world and each other. They influence our emotions, our actions, and even our self-worth. Kind words can heal, encourage, and build bridges. But harsh, negative words can tear down, wound, and divide.
The Bible speaks a lot about the power of language. It warns against “filthy language,” “cursing,” and “slander.” Instead, it encourages us to use words that are wholesome and build others up. In Matthew 12:36–37, Jesus says that we’ll have to account for every careless word we speak. Why? Because words reveal what’s in our hearts—they show who we are on the inside.
The Impact of Negative Vitriol
When hateful language becomes normal, it pollutes our hearts and our society. Hurtful words don’t just stay in the air—they sink into us and those around us, changing how we feel and act. Here’s how this negative talk has led America to a darker place:
· Division and Distrust: When we constantly hear harsh talk, it builds walls between groups of people—political parties, races, neighbors, even family members. Instead of working together, we become suspicious and hostile.
· Emotional Harm: Negative words cause pain, anger, and sadness. They can destroy someone’s confidence or make them feel worthless.
· Violence and Anger: When hateful speech goes unchecked, it can stir people up to act on those feelings, leading to fights, protests, or even worse.
· Loss of Hope: When all we hear is negativity, it’s easy to lose hope in our country and in each other.
Why the Bible Warns Against Harmful Speech
The Bible warns us about using bad language for several reasons:
· It pollutes our hearts. Hurtful language comes from a place of bitterness, anger, or pride, and makes those feelings grow.
· It harms others. The tongue can bring life or death, healing or harm. Slandering or cursing others goes against the goodness God wants for us.
· It’s unfitting for believers. Christians are called to thank God and encourage others, not to tear them down.
· We’re accountable. Our words matter, and we’ll answer for them.
The Creative and Destructive Power of Words
Words have the power to shape reality. What we say and how we say it can change how people see themselves and the world. That’s why the Bible urges us to speak truthfully, say what we mean, and focus on what is pure and good.
· Words shape beliefs: If we constantly call people enemies, we start to believe it. If we call others friends, trust can grow.
· Words influence emotions: Encouragement lifts up, insults drag down.
· Words create or destroy: We can use our speech to build relationships and solve problems, or to spread lies and hurt others.
· Words drive action: What we say and repeat sets the stage for how we act.
What We Can Do to Turn Things Around
The Bible doesn’t just tell us what not to do—it gives us solutions:
· Choose words wisely. Think before you speak or post. Will your words help or hurt?
· Speak with purpose. Aim to build others up, even those you disagree with.
· Be honest, but kind. Let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, without resorting to insults or sarcasm.
· Fill your heart with good things. Spend time thinking about what is true, noble, right, and lovely. What fills your heart will come out of your mouth.
· Show grace and forgiveness. Let wisdom and grace make it easier to forgive and move on, not to hold grudges and spread hatred.
Examples in Everyday Life
· At home: Instead of lashing out when frustrated, take a breath and use words that express your feelings without hurting others.
· Online: Before you comment or share, ask if your words will help solve a problem or just add to the noise.
· At work or school: Compliment and thank others for their efforts. Even small positive words can make a big difference.
· In disagreements: Focus on what you can agree on and work from there, instead of attacking the other person.
Hope for America
America doesn’t have to stay in this dark place. Each of us can help bring back the light by choosing words that heal and unite, instead of words that hurt and divide. If we fill our hearts with good things—and let those things come out in our speech—we can change our communities, our nation, and even ourselves, for the better.
Let’s use the power of words as they were meant to be used: to build up, not tear down. In doing so, we honor not only each other but the calling to goodness that lives in every heart.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 